Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, has launched a major offensive against terrorists and bandits in Katsina State, destroying several criminal hideouts and logistics bases as part of efforts to restore security in the region.
The operation, code-named Operation Clean Sweep III, commenced on June 14, 2026, in Matazu Local Government Area and adjoining communities following the abduction and subsequent killing of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar by suspected terrorists and bandits.
According to the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the operation is specifically aimed at tracking down and neutralising those responsible for the attack, dismantling criminal networks and denying terrorists freedom of action within the area.
Since the launch of the operation, troops have intensified offensive actions through aggressive fighting patrols, intelligence-led raids, cordon-and-search operations and clearance missions across identified criminal enclaves within the Joint Operations Area.
The military disclosed that significant successes have already been recorded in the Dikkawa Hills axis and surrounding communities.
During clearance operations in Adua, Nasarawa and Karaduwa communities, troops searched and combed several suspected terrorist hideouts, leading to the discovery and destruction of logistics bases and life-support structures used by criminal elements.
Military authorities said the destruction of these facilities has further weakened the operational capabilities of terrorists and bandits operating in the area.
The operation is being conducted in collaboration with sister services, other security agencies and local stakeholders, whose support has been described as critical to ongoing efforts to improve security across Katsina State.
The Theatre Command of Operation FANSAN YAMMA reassured residents of Matazu Local Government Area and neighbouring communities that troops remain committed to protecting law-abiding citizens and sustaining pressure on criminal elements.
The command also appealed to members of the public to continue providing credible and timely intelligence that could assist security agencies in identifying and apprehending terrorists and bandits.
“Troops will continue to sustain pressure on criminal elements until the operational objectives are fully achieved,” the statement said.
Military authorities added that further updates would be provided as the operation progresses.