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End of Terror: How Operation Fansan Yanma Troops Eliminated Notorious Bandit Kachallah Dan Isihu
End of Terror: How Operation Fansan Yanma Troops Eliminated Notorious Bandit Kachallah Dan Isihu
By Zagazola Makama
For years, Kachallah Dan Isihu was a name that struck fear into communities across Zamfara, Katsina, and parts of Kaduna State.
A ruthless warlord, he led deadly raids, ambushed security forces, and masterminded kidnappings and cattle rustling operations, leaving a trail of blood and destruction. But his reign of terror has finally come to an end eliminated in a decisive military operation by troops of Operation Fansan Yanma.
The Man Behind the Mayhem
Kachallah Dan Isihu was not just a bandit; he was a symbol of organized terror in the North-West. His network controlled key supply routes for arms and ransom payments, while his fighters, numbering in the hundreds, enforced his rule over villages, collecting illegal taxes and executing those who resisted. Dan Isuhu was a key player on the Kidnap of the train Victims in Kaduna. He received N800 million from the proceeds of the negotiations.
His criminal activities peaked during Ramadan, when he intensified attacks, killing at least one person daily as part of what he reportedly called a “personal obligation.”
In the weeks leading up to his death, Dan Isihu orchestrated multiple attacks that put him at the top of the security forces’ most-wanted list. Among them were: A twin attack on Tsafe town that led to the death of the Tsafe Local Government Security Chief, vigilante members, and security operatives. Daily ambushes on the Tsafe-Yankara highway, where he and his men intercepted and terrorized travelers, conducting up to seven attacks in a single day. Coordinated raids on rural communities, burning homes and forcing entire villages to flee.
Dan Isihu was emboldened by his ties to Ado Alero, a notorious bandit leader who had been declared wanted by the Katsina State Government with a ₦5 million bounty on his head. The endgame for Dan Isihu began when military intelligence tracked his movements to a well-fortified camp in the forests of Zamfara, a known base for his operations. Under Operation Fansan Yanma, a special task force comprising elite ground troops, Air Force fighter jets, and tactical reconnaissance teams launched a targeted assault.
According to military sources, the offensive was swift and devastating: Aerial bombardments neutralized key positions, cutting off escape routes. Ground forces launched a simultaneous attack, engaging Dan Isihu’s fighters in a fierce gun battle. After hours of resistance, Dan Isihu was eliminated, along with dozens of his fighters, in an operation that left no room for his survival. He was initially wounded but later died at Danjibga forest.
Military officer who participated in the mission described the moment they confirmed Dan Isihu’s death: “We knew the battle was over when his men started fleeing in disarray. We have been battling with them for the past four days. We learnt he was wounded but he later died this evening.
The elimination of Dan Isihu is a major victory in the fight against banditry in the North-West.
For residents of Zamfara, Katsina, and Kaduna, the fall of Dan Isihu offers a rare moment of relief, but security forces remain on high alert. The military has vowed to sustain its offensive until all criminal elements are wiped out.
As Nigeria continues its battle against insecurity, the success of Operation Fansan Yanma stands as proof that banditry is not invincible, and with sustained military action, peace can return to the troubled North-West.
End of Terror: How Operation Fansan Yanma Troops Eliminated Notorious Bandit Kachallah Dan Isihu
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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