Nigerian troops under the Operation FANSAN YANMA on Thursday, successfully eliminated another deadly and notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Na Faranshi, along with several of his fighters in their camps in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
According to counter-insurgency and security expert in the Lake Chad region, Zagazola Makama, the raid that neutralized Faranshi and his foot soldiers took place following intense intelligence gathering by the Nigerian Army.
Makama who shared the news on his X handle on Friday, said the terrorists was eliminated when they came in contact with the troops following a fierce gun battle that ensued.
“Kachalla Na Faranshi was a high-profile bandit leader originally from Shirgi village in Maradi, Niger Republic. Before venturing into armed criminality, he and his father were cattle traders. Over time, he became deeply involved in banditry and weapons smuggling,” Makama wrote.
“His stronghold was located in the Dutsen Kura forest, southwest of Mashema in Zurmi Local Government Area.
“He was known for smuggling illicit firearms from Mali and Niger, supplying weapons to various armed groups operating in Nigeria’s northwestern forests.
“Na Faranshi had links with terrorist groups operating in Mali and was previously an ally of the notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, before establishing his own criminal network.
“On March 23, 2024, Kachalla Na Faranshi released a video displaying sophisticated weapons and a large number of fighters, issuing threats to attack Zurmi town in Zamfara State. His group was responsible for multiple attacks, kidnappings, and arms trafficking in the region.
“During the recent operation in the forests of Zurmi, security forces engaged Na Faranshi and his men in a fierce gun battle, successfully eliminating him and many of his fighters.
“The Nigerian military have continued to intensified operations in Zamfara and neighboring states to curb banditry and ensure peace in the entire Northwestern region.”