Troops neutralise nine terrorists, two bandit kings in Katsina–Zamfara operations
Troops of the Operation Fansan Yamma under Sector 2 have neutralised nine terrorists, including two high-profile kingpins, during coordinated operations conducted across Katsina and Zamfara States over the past three
Troops of the Operation Fansan Yamma under Sector 2 have neutralised nine terrorists, including two high-profile kingpins, during coordinated operations conducted across Katsina and Zamfara States over the past three days.
The operations also led to the recovery of four AK-47 rifles, nine motorcycles, ammunition, mobile phones and cash across the affected areas.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division/Sector 2 Operation Fansan Yamma, Olaniyi Osoba.
In Katsina State, troops of the Forward Operating Base Faskari engaged terrorists along the Turare–Yantumaki Road in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area, where four insurgents were neutralised. The operation led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, magazines, ammunition, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones, and ₦153,000 in cash.
In a separate operation in Zamfara State, troops at the Forward Operating Base Bagega conducted a major offensive in Anka Local Government Area, resulting in the neutralisation of seven terrorists, including two notorious kingpins identified as Anaruwa and Gomina. Anaruwa was reportedly the younger brother of a known terrorist commander, Kachalla Idi Aiki.
According to the statement, an initial encounter along the Bagega–Anka Road forced four armed terrorists on motorcycles to retreat. The attackers later regrouped and launched a counteroffensive on the base, which was repelled following reinforcement by ground troops and a precision air support strike.
A second wave of eight terrorists on motorcycles was subsequently engaged, leading to the killing of three more insurgents. Troops later recovered two AK-47 rifles and seven motorcycles during exploitation of the area.
In a follow-up operation on May 3, 2026, two additional terrorists were neutralised in the same axis, though one soldier lost his life during the engagement.
Osoba said troops have since consolidated their presence in Bagega to sustain operational dominance and prevent further attacks, reaffirming the military’s commitment to protecting citizens and urging residents to report suspicious movements to security agencies.
