Troops of Operation Whirl Punch have killed 36 bandits, including Buhari Alhaji Halidu, also known as ‘Buharin Yadi,’ one of the most feared bandit leaders terrorizing northern Nigeria for years. The development sparked wild jubilation among residents of the Kaduna-Katsina border communities.

Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, disclosed the details on Thursday in Kaduna. He revealed that Buharin Yadi had connections with other deadly terrorist groups in the North-East and North-West.

According to Aruwan, the bandit kingpin and his gang had been wreaking havoc on citizens in the Kidandan/Galadimawa areas of Giwa Local Government Area, the Sabon Birni/Kerawa areas of Igabi LG in Kaduna, and locations in nearby Sabuwa LGA of Katsina State. Their terror also extended to parts of Niger and Zamfara States.

“The infamous terrorist, Buharin Yadi, one of the deadliest bandit leaders terrorizing northern Nigeria in the last decade, has met his bitter end at the hands of security forces,” Aruwan announced.

He detailed that the troops of Sector 6 Operation Whirl Punch, under the coordination of their Commander, Major General MLD Saraso, engaged in a fierce battle with the bandits around Idasu forest at the boundaries between Giwa LGA of Kaduna State and Sabuwa LGA of Katsina State. The operation began in response to intelligence reports on terrorist movements from the Samunaka and Saulawa areas of Katsina State.

“On advancing to Samunaka, the troops found the settlement destroyed and cattle killed, evidence of recent criminal activity by the bandits,” Aruwan said.

He added that the troops launched a ferocious battle, pounding approaching terrorists with artillery rounds at Hayin Almajiri and bravely fought through an ambush. Initial assessments indicated that at least 36 bandits were eliminated in the engagement, including Buharin Yadi.

“Buharin Yadi was involved in large-scale cattle rustling, arms trading, and drug trafficking. He had led his gang in pillaging communities and the slaughter and kidnapping of thousands of citizens in Kaduna and neighboring states,” Aruwan added.

The breakthrough marks the end of a five-year manhunt by security forces for the notorious bandit. The news of his demise spread quickly, bringing massive relief and widespread celebrations among locals across Kaduna and Katsina States.

Governor Uba Sani expressed his excitement upon receiving the report, praising the bravery, proactiveness, and efficiency of the troops involved. He commended Major General Saraso for his leadership and lauded the troops for their victory.

The governor reassured security forces of his unwavering support and the continued collaborative stance of the government.