Troops of 22 Armoured Brigade under Operation FANSAN YAMMA launch Operation Igbo Danu in Kwara State, destroying bandit camps
Nigerian Army’s Operation Igbo Danu (Forest Flush) Delivers Major Blows to Bandits in Kwara State
Troops of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Nigerian Army, supported by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), have recorded significant successes against bandit groups in Kwara State through sustained offensive operations from January 23 to 29, 2026.
The campaign, known as Operation Igbo Danu (also called Operation Forest Flush), falls under Sector 3 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY). It was led by Major General Chinedu Nnebife, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 3 OPFY, in collaboration with Brigadier General Nicholas Rume, Commander 22 Armoured Brigade.
Announcing the achievements on Friday, January 30, 2026, Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations / Sector 3 Operations FANSAN YAMMA, Captain Maureen Ogbuka, highlighted the troops’ high operational responsiveness and determination to dismantle terrorist networks.
Key highlights from the week-long operations include:
- Neutralisation of terrorists during fighting patrols in bandit enclaves, with others fleeing into forests with suspected gunshot wounds.
- Complete destruction of hideouts, camps, and logistics bases, severely disrupting bandits’ sustainment and supply chains.
- Clearance of Garin Dandi—a notorious bandit stronghold in Ifelodun Local Government Area—resulting in the decimation of their logistical infrastructure.
- Raids on remote, previously inaccessible forested camps, leading to the destruction of abandoned sites and critical enablers.
- Interception of fleeing bandits at blocking positions, culminating in the arrest of suspects.
- Rescue of numerous kidnap victims from various camps across the state.
Despite challenging and restrictive terrain, troops maintained aggressive pressure, denying bandits freedom of movement and restoring security in affected communities.
The statement noted that bandits often benefit from intelligence provided by collaborators in nearby communities, enabling early escapes from targeted areas.
“The successes recorded underscore the resolve and operational effectiveness of the Division in degrading terrorist elements and restoring security across Kwara State,” Captain Ogbuka stated.
Major General Nnebife called on the public to provide credible and timely intelligence on bandits and their collaborators to bolster ongoing efforts.
Operations continue as the Nigerian Army intensifies actions to decisively eliminate all terrorist networks operating in Kwara State and the wider Joint Operations Area. Read More
