Nigerian troops have reportedly eliminated Kachallah Dan Isihu, a notorious bandit leader responsible for years of terror across Zamfara, Katsina, and parts of Kaduna State. His death marks a significant victory in the ongoing battle against banditry in the North-West.
A Reign of Terror Ends
Kachallah was infamous for orchestrating deadly raids, ambushing security forces, and conducting mass kidnappings. He also masterminded large-scale cattle rustling and imposed illegal taxes on villages under his control.
Beyond local banditry, he played a major role in the Kaduna train attack, where he allegedly received ₦800 million in ransom from negotiations.
Military Operation Leads to His Downfall
Security expert Zagazola Makama confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that Kachallah was neutralized in a decisive military operation by troops under Operation Fansan Yanma.
The military had tracked Kachallah to a fortified camp in Zamfara’s forests, where he led coordinated attacks on communities and travelers, particularly along the Tsafe-Yankara highway.
During Ramadan, he intensified attacks, reportedly killing at least one person daily as part of a so-called “personal obligation.”
Swift and Tactical Assault
Under Operation Fansan Yanma, a special task force—including elite ground troops, Air Force fighter jets, and reconnaissance units—launched a coordinated assault on his hideout.
According to Zagazola, the offensive was swift and devastating:
- Aerial bombardments targeted key positions, cutting off escape routes.
- Ground forces engaged Kachallah’s fighters in a fierce battle.
- After hours of resistance, Kachallah was fatally wounded and later died in Danjibga forest, alongside dozens of his men.
A military officer who took part in the mission recounted:
“We knew the battle was over when his men started fleeing in disarray. We had been fighting them for four days. He was wounded earlier but later succumbed to his injuries.”
A Major Victory, but the Fight Continues
Kachallah’s death weakens his criminal network, which controlled key supply routes for arms and ransom payments. However, he had strong alliances, including with Ado Alero, another notorious bandit leader with a ₦5 million bounty on his head.
For residents of Zamfara, Katsina, and Kaduna, this brings a rare moment of relief, but security forces remain vigilant. The military has vowed to sustain its offensive until all criminal elements are eradicated.
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