Zamfara: Sani Black, Feared Bandit Leader, Confirmed Killed With His 2 Son

In an effort in the fight against banditry in northern Nigeria, notorious bandit leader Kachalla Sani Black has been killed. Sani Black, infamous for leading numerous terror attacks, was ambushed and eliminated by local vigilantes, with support from the military, in the Magama Mai Rake area of Maru Local Government Area, Zamfara State.

During the operation, both Sani Black and two of his sons were neutralized. The vigilantes recovered two AK-47 rifles, a PKT machine gun, and an undisclosed sum of cash at the scene.

Sani Black had long terrorized communities in northern Zamfara, leading deadly raids, kidnappings, and sexual assaults. His gang, numbering over 150 armed men, operated not only in Zamfara but also in neighboring states such as Kaduna, Niger, and Kebbi. His criminal activities included ambushes, ransom-driven kidnappings, and the destruction of villages across the region.

Clash with Vigilantes and Military Response

On the morning of September 24, 2024, troops from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Hanutara were dispatched to the Tashar Sahabi area following reports of a clash between local vigilantes and terrorists. Their mission was to prevent potential reprisal attacks from the terrorists. Upon reaching the scene, they identified the body of Sani Black but were soon met with heavy gunfire from nearby bandits.

As the firefight escalated, one of the military’s Combat Support Vehicles (CSK) became immobilized, putting the soldiers in a vulnerable position. Despite reinforcements arriving from Team 3 Headquarters in Magami and FOB Dansadau, the troops were temporarily withdrawn. During the encounter, the CSK was destroyed, and two soldiers sustained injuries.

The death of Sani Black marks a significant victory for both security forces and local vigilantes in their ongoing efforts to combat banditry in Zamfara State. Sani Black had been a rival to another notorious bandit leader, Kachallah Gwaska Dankarami, and his influence in the region was unrivaled. His ability to coordinate attacks across multiple states made him one of the most dangerous criminals in the North West.

Bandits Plan Reprisal

Following Sani Black’s elimination, intelligence reports suggest that several bandit leaders, including Gwaska Dankarami and fighters loyal to the late Kawaje group, are mobilizing around Kuran Mota to plan reprisal attacks. Security forces remain on high alert and are prepared to respond to any retaliatory actions as efforts continue to stabilize the region.

Credit: Zagazola Makama