Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
Troops of Sector Two under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have thwarted a major plot by terrorists to unleash attacks across parts of north-west Nigeria, killing nine insurgents, including two notorious kingpins, during coordinated operations in Katsina State and Zamfara State.
The military operations, carried out between May 1st and 3rd, also led to the recovery of four AK-47 rifles, motorcycles, ammunition, and other items.
According to a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations
8 Division, Army / Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, in Katsina State, troops from the Forward Operating Base in 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 attackers were neutralized, while troops recovered weapons, motorcycles, mobile phones, and a sum of one hundred and fifty-three thousand naira.
Meanwhile, in Zamfara State, troops at the Forward Operating Base in Bagega conducted a series of high-risk operations in Anka Local Government Area. Seven terrorists were neutralized in the encounters, including two key figures identified as Anaruwa and Gomina. Anaruwa is reported to be the younger brother of a known terrorist commander, Kachalla Idi Aiki.
The operation began on May 2nd, when troops clashed with armed fighters along the Bagega–Anka road, forcing them to retreat. The insurgents later regrouped and attempted a counterattack on the military base.
The statement added that reinforcements, backed by precision air support, successfully repelled the assault. A second wave of attackers was engaged, leading to further casualties among the terrorists and the recovery of additional weapons and motorcycles.
Consequently, on May 3rd, troops encountered and eliminated two more terrorists in a follow-up operation within the same area. However, the military confirmed that one soldier lost his life during the operations.
Troops have since strengthened their presence in Bagega and surrounding communities to prevent further attacks, as Operation FANSAN YAMMA reiterates its commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
Residents are being urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to security agencies.