Sani Black, a notorious bandit leader, has reportedly been killed by vigilantes in Zamfara state.
Black, infamous for leading deadly attacks, abductions, and sexual violence across northern Zamfara, was said to have been ambushed and killed by local vigilantes, with support from the military in Magama Mai Rake, Maru LGA.
Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication covering the Lake Chad region, reported that two of Black’s sons were also killed during the operation.
The vigilantes recovered two AK-47 rifles, a PKT machine gun, and an undisclosed amount of money from the scene.
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Black, who had over 150 armed followers, extended his reign of terror beyond Zamfara to neighbouring Kaduna, Niger, and Kebbi states.
“On the morning of September 24, 2024, following a clash between vigilantes and terrorists in the Tashar Sahabi area, troops from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Hanutara were deployed to prevent potential reprisal attacks,” the report reads.
“Upon arrival, they identified Sani Black’s body but soon came under heavy fire from nearby terrorists.
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“As the firefight escalated, a Combat Support Vehicle (CSK) became stuck, leaving soldiers vulnerable. Despite reinforcements from Magami and FOB Dansadau, the troops were temporarily withdrawn.
“The CSK was destroyed, and two soldiers were wounded.
“Sani Black’s death is a significant victory for security forces and vigilantes in the fight against banditry in Zamfara.”
The report noted that Black had been a key rival to Gwaska Dankarami, another notorious bandit, and was regarded as one of the most dangerous criminals in the north-west.
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Makama quoted intelligence sources as saying that bandit leaders, including Dankarami and fighters from the late Kawaje group, are mobilising in Kuran Mota for potential reprisal attacks.
Security forces are reportedly on high alert — prepared to counter any retaliatory moves — as they work to stabilise the region.
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