Notorious bandit commander, Kachalla Sani Yellow, has been killed in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State, with conflicting reports emerging over the circumstances surrounding his death.
Some local sources said Yellow was shot dead on Friday at Dan Jibga Market by gunmen suspected to be loyal to rival bandit leader, Dogo Gide. They claimed the attackers ambushed him in broad daylight while he was at the market.
Residents familiar with activities of armed groups in the area said the incident reflected the growing rivalry among bandit factions battling for territorial control in Zamfara.
However, security sources gave a different account, saying the notorious commander was neutralised during a joint operation involving security personnel and members of the Maiduguri Special Vigilantes.
According to the sources, the operation was part of ongoing offensives targeting criminal hideouts and high-profile bandit leaders across the state.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had yet to officially confirm the exact circumstances surrounding Yellow’s death.
Yellow was regarded as one of the most influential bandit commanders operating across Anka, Bukkuyum, Maru and neighbouring local government areas.
He was accused of masterminding numerous attacks on rural communities, mass kidnappings for ransom, cattle rustling and other violent crimes that displaced thousands of residents across the North-West.
Meanwhile, fresh attacks have reportedly occurred in Tsafe Local Government Area following Yellow’s death.
Local sources alleged that gunmen suspected to be loyal to another notorious bandit leader, Adamu Aliero, invaded several communities, killing at least two people and abducting more than 60 others.
The attackers were also said to have looted food items and livestock before fleeing into nearby forests.
Residents believe the attacks were carried out in retaliation for the recent killing of prominent bandit commanders during ongoing security operations in Zamfara.
Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA have reportedly intensified patrols and launched pursuit operations to rescue the abducted victims and prevent further attacks.
