Troops Kill Notorious Bandit Kingpin Hamisu ‘Mamiyo’ in Katsina Raid as Boss Escapes Wounded

Nigerian troops have reportedly killed notorious bandit kingpin and suspected gunrunner Hamisu, also known as Muhammadu Hamisu or “Mamiyo,” during a dawn operation in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The operation was conducted on Monday by troops of the 17 Brigade operating under Operation Fansan Yamma, as part of intensified military efforts to dismantle bandit and terrorist networks operating across the Northwest.

Military sources said Mamiyo and another senior operative identified as Umar Bocho were killed when troops stormed a bandit enclave in the area.

However, the alleged leader of the group, Kachalla Muhammadu Filani, reportedly escaped during the encounter after sustaining severe gunshot wounds.

Mamiyo was considered a significant figure within the criminal network because of his alleged role as a gunrunner and logistics supplier. He was reportedly identified as the second-in-command to Filani and was believed to have played a key role in supplying weapons and other logistical support to armed groups operating in the region.

Troops also recovered and destroyed two motorcycles belonging to the group during the operation.

The latest military success is part of the broader campaign to weaken armed groups responsible for attacks, kidnappings, arms trafficking and other criminal activities across Katsina, Zamfara and Sokoto states.

Mamiyo was not new to the attention of security agencies. In July 2025, he was reportedly arrested by troops operating under Operation Fasin Yamma in collaboration with the Department of State Services during a coordinated operation targeting bandit hideouts in Zamfara and Sokoto states.

That operation reportedly resulted in the rescue of 106 kidnapped victims in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, while additional hostages were later released through non-kinetic engagements.

Security forces also recovered weapons, motorcycles, illicit drugs, logistics supplies and cash during the 2025 operation.

The reported death of Mamiyo could represent a significant setback for the network because of his alleged involvement in the movement of weapons and other supplies. Security analysts have long noted that targeting commanders responsible for logistics and coordination can disrupt armed groups beyond the immediate loss of fighters.

Meanwhile, security forces are continuing efforts to locate Filani, who is believed to have fled the scene with serious gunshot injuries.

Medical facilities in the region have reportedly been alerted to watch for patients presenting with gunshot wounds, as security agencies intensify efforts to apprehend the wounded commander.

Operations under Operation Fansan Yamma remain ongoing across the Northwest, with troops continuing to target bandit camps, weapons supply routes and other logistical networks supporting armed groups.

The military’s latest operation comes amid continued efforts by Nigerian security forces to restore stability in communities affected by banditry, kidnapping and terrorism across the region.