A coordinated counter-offensive by security forces in Zamfara State has resulted in the killing of scores of suspected bandits, including the son of a notorious kingpin, following a fierce gun battle in Tsafe Local Government Area.

Security sources disclosed that the confrontation began late Saturday when armed bandits launched an हमला on members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), also known as “Yan Maiduguri,” in Kunchin Kalgo village.

In response, a joint security team mobilised reinforcements to support the CJTF operatives, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire. A security operative involved in the mission said the troops overpowered the attackers using superior firepower and pursued them into the Munhaye forest, where over 30 bandits were reportedly neutralised.

Among those killed was Kachalla Iliya Sarki, identified as the son of notorious bandit leader Ado Aleiro, along with another key figure known as Dogo Bete.

The spokesperson for Operation Fansan Yamma, David Adewusi, confirmed the encounter, stating that while many terrorists were eliminated, the exact number remains unverified as clearance operations are still ongoing.

Despite the success recorded, the clash came at a cost, with local sources confirming that more than 10 CJTF members were killed, while several others are still missing.

In a separate development on Sunday, CJTF operatives engaged another group of bandits in Kungurki village, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, where two bandits were reportedly killed.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Ahmad Bello, confirmed the incidents, noting that special forces have been deployed to restore calm, and that normalcy has since returned to the affected areas.

Zamfara State has continued to face persistent attacks by armed groups for over a decade, resulting in widespread casualties, destruction of property, and ransom-related crimes, with residents still calling for lasting and decisive solutions to the crisis.