Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA have intensified counter-terrorism efforts in the North-West, neutralising nine terrorists, including two notorious kingpins, and recovering arms and logistics in coordinated operations across Katsina and Zamfara States.
The operations, conducted between May 1 and 3, 2026, also led to the recovery of four AK-47 rifles, nine motorcycles, mobile phones, and cash, underscoring what the military described as sustained pressure on criminal elements in the region.
In Katsina State, troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Fudma, while on a fighting patrol along the Turare–Yantumaki Road in Dutsinma Local Government Area, engaged terrorists in a fierce gun battle. Four of the assailants were neutralised during the encounter.
Items recovered from the scene included two AK-47 rifles with two magazines, ammunition, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones, and the sum of ₦153,000.
In a separate but related operation in Zamfara State, troops of FOB Bagega carried out a high-risk mission in Anka Local Government Area between May 2 and 3, resulting in the neutralisation of seven terrorists, including two identified kingpins, Anaruwa and Gomina.
Anaruwa was reported to be the younger brother of Kachalla Idi Aiki, a known terrorist commander operating in the region.
According to a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, the operation began on May 2 when troops engaged terrorists along the Bagega–Anka Road, forcing four armed fighters on two motorcycles to flee and abandon their equipment.
The terrorists, however, regrouped and launched a counterattack on FOB Bagega. Reinforced by additional combat teams and supported by precision airstrikes from the Air Component, the troops repelled the assault and engaged a second wave of eight terrorists on four motorcycles, neutralising three of them.
Subsequent exploitation of the area led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles with loaded magazines and seven motorcycles.
On May 3, troops conducting follow-on operations encountered and neutralised two additional terrorists on motorbikes within the same axis.
The military, however, confirmed that one soldier lost his life during the operation.
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Troops have since consolidated their positions in Bagega and surrounding areas, maintaining operational dominance to prevent further attacks.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies.
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