RismadarVoice Reporters, June 19, 2026
Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued a kidnap victim held in chains and destroyed several terrorist hideouts during a major offensive operation in Katsina State.
The operation, conducted under Operation CLEAN SWEEP, targeted terrorist enclaves in Matazu Local Government Area and the notorious Fafu Forest, according to a statement by the Army on Thursday.
The troops, drawn from the 17 Brigade Strike Group, Quick Response Force, and elements of the 8 Division Special Forces, carried out intelligence-driven operations supported by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
Military authorities said the offensive began with a coordinated clearance mission around Tuga community in Matazu LGA, where troops, aided by real-time Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) support, cleared several settlements believed to be occupied by terrorists.
During the operation, soldiers recovered a large number of rustled livestock, including 36 cattle, 280 sheep, and two donkeys, believed to have been stolen by the criminal groups.
The Army described the recovery as a significant setback to the terrorists, whose operations are largely financed through cattle rustling and related criminal activities.
The troops subsequently advanced into Fafu Forest, a known terrorist stronghold, where they launched further assaults on identified targets following coordinated aerial and artillery bombardments.
According to the statement, several terrorist camps and concealed hideouts were destroyed during the operation.
In the course of the mission, troops discovered a hideout linked to a notorious terrorist leader where kidnapped victims were allegedly being held.
The Army said two bodies were recovered from the location, while one captive, identified as Nura Yar’Adua, was found chained and was successfully rescued.
The victim received first aid before being evacuated to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, for further medical treatment.
Military authorities said post-operation assessments showed that terrorist logistics facilities were destroyed and evidence of enemy casualties was observed across the targeted locations, indicating a significant reduction in the group’s operational capacity.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to combating insecurity and safeguarding lives and property, while urging residents to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies.
“The fight against insecurity is a collective responsibility, and together we will continue to address all threats to peace and stability,” the statement said.
