Security forces involved in Operation FANSAN YANMA have killed Dan Dari Biyar, a gang leader known for violent crimes in Sokoto State’s Sabon Birni area, located in northwestern Nigeria. The operation took place on Thursday in the western part of Sabon Birni, as the suspect was reportedly attempting to collect ransom payments from families of kidnapping victims.
Background and criminal activities of Dan Dari Biyar
Dan Dari Biyar was a feared figure in the region, notorious for his cruelty. His nickname reportedly stemmed from a provocative phrase he frequently used: “I prefer 500 nairas over a Hausa.” He was known for humiliating hostages, demanding large ransom sums, and employing violence without hesitation.
Operating primarily from the Tidibale forest, Dan Dari Biyar orchestrated multiple attacks on villages including Lalle, Tsamaye, Gwadabawa, and Gwaronyo. His actions reportedly involved ambushes, arson, and the total destruction of Gidan Sale village along the Gundumi route.
Intelligence services had previously identified him as a mastermind behind numerous kidnappings, murders, and arson attacks in Sokoto East, especially in hard-to-access forest areas.
Joint military and community security operation
The successful operation was carried out by a combined team of Nigerian Army soldiers and local security volunteers working under the Sokoto State government’s community protection program. At the scene, troops recovered weapons, ammunition, and communication devices.
Efforts continue to track and apprehend fleeing members of the gang following the elimination of their leader.
