Security forces have neutralised several suspected terrorists and recovered weapons, cash, motorcycles, and other contraband during a joint clearance operation in Gumki Forest, Kangiwa, Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The operation, conducted on Monday, September 14, 2026, at approximately 6:05 a.m., was carried out by the Kebbi State Police Command and troops from the Nigerian Army under Operation Fansan Yamma. The coordinated effort targeted known hideouts of criminal elements in the forest, which lies near the Nigeria-Niger border and has long been used as a transit route by bandits and Lakurawa insurgents.
According to SP Bashir Usman, the Public Relations Officer for the Kebbi State Police Command, and Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, spokesman for the Army’s 8 Division, security personnel encountered terrorist elements while advancing through identified enclaves within the dense forest. Osoba confirmed that troops engaged the suspects with superior firepower, resulting in the killing of several terrorists, while others fled into the thick vegetation. The operation demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence-led tactics and inter-agency cooperation in combating insecurity in the region.
Following the initial engagement, a thorough search of the area yielded significant recoveries. Among the items seized were one PKT machine gun with 174 rounds of live ammunition, one AK-47 rifle with 14 rounds, four motorcycles, two mobile phones, N87,000 in cash, military camouflage uniforms, a pair of combat boots, charms, and various other combat-related equipment. These findings underscore the preparedness and operational capacity of the armed groups operating in the area, highlighting the importance of sustained security operations.
Gumki Forest has historically served as a sanctuary for bandits and violent extremists due to its remote location and proximity to international borders. The police emphasized that the area remains under surveillance, with ongoing joint operations aimed at clearing all remaining criminal elements and restoring peace. CP Umar M. Hadejia, the Commissioner of Police, commended the bravery and dedication of the security operatives involved, noting their crucial role in safeguarding lives and property.
Hadejia reiterated the commitment of the Kebbi State Police Command to maintain coordinated and intelligence-driven operations across the state to counter terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality. He urged local residents to actively support security efforts by providing timely and credible information, stressing that community involvement is essential for lasting peace. As operations continue, authorities remain focused on ensuring long-term stability in vulnerable border regions.
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