The reported killing of a senior lieutenant to notorious bandit commander Kachalla Muhammadu could deal a fresh blow to the group’s operations in Katsina State.

Biliya was reportedly killed on August 14 after his gang came under an ambush by troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA in the Matazu axis, according to intelligence obtained by Zagazola Makama and made available to SpyeTV News.

The development reportedly emerged during a late-night conversation between two suspected bandit associates, identified as Mamiyo and Juli Asso Maha.

Juli reportedly asked about Biliya’s whereabouts, prompting Mamiyo, who had recently returned from Kachalla Muhammadu’s location, to explain that Biliya and members of his gang had moved towards the northern part of their base.

According to the account, the group entered an undisclosed town and later left Biliya inside a shop before security forces reportedly launched an ambush.

Biliya was said to have been killed during the encounter, with members of the group later confirming his death after returning to their leader’s location.

The reported loss reportedly angered members of the group, with Juli expressing frustration over the death of the senior commander.

Biliya was believed to be one of Kachalla Muhammadu’s key lieutenants and was involved in coordinating armed activities in parts of Katsina State.

His reported death could weaken the group’s operational structure, although security authorities had not officially confirmed the killing as of the time of filing this report.

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have continued offensive operations targeting terrorist commanders, fighters and logistics networks across Katsina and neighbouring states.