RismadarVoice Reporters
March 27, 2026
Troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, have stepped up operations against criminal and terrorist enclaves across Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi states, killing at least six suspected bandits and recovering weapons and communication equipment during coordinated offensives this week.
According to the Nigerian Army, the intensified operations aim to protect vulnerable communities and dismantle criminal networks in the North-West.ll
In Sokoto State, troops of the COAS Intervention Battalion VII engaged terrorists in two separate encounters at Magonho Forest on March 25, neutralizing three bandits and recovering three AK-47 rifles and motorcycles.
In Zamfara State, troops executed a successful ambush along the Gada Maya–Makakari road, killing two terrorists and forcing others to flee, leaving behind an AK-47 rifle, three magazines, 55 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, a Baofeng radio, two mobile phones, and a motorcycle. Later, troops foiled a retaliatory attack on Kaida Village, neutralizing one additional terrorist and recovering another rifle.
In another intelligence-led clearance operation in Dutsi Village, Moriki District, Zurmi Local Government Area, troops forced fleeing terrorists to abandon weapons and ammunition under sustained military pressure.
In Kebbi State, troops responding to intelligence on the Lakurawa Terrorist Group in Giron Masa community, Shanga Local Government Area, ran into an ambush about 500 metres from the village. Reinforcements and combat support were quickly deployed, ensuring the troops held their ground.
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lt Col Olaniyi Osoba, said the operations demonstrate the military’s resolve to dominate the battlespace and degrade terrorist capabilities. “Our troops have remained resolute and undeterred in the face of provocation. The ongoing operations are a clear indication of our commitment to neutralising terrorist elements and restoring lasting peace across the North-West,” he said.
Meanwhile, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke, working with the Benue Civil Protection Guard, successfully rescued 28-year-old Mrs Member Ityavber in Tse-Ubena village, Katsina-Ala LGA, and arrested two suspected armed herders.
The operation involved a thorough search of an abandoned criminal hideout and further exploitation across River Akpako.
In Zamfara State, police rescued a housewife and her six children abducted in Damba town, Gusau LGA. DSP Yazid Abubakar, the state police spokesperson, said the abductors fled after a confrontation with a patrol team, and all victims were reunited with their families unharmed.
The Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, Maj Gen Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and prompt response, while the military reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing intelligence-driven operations to track down fleeing fighters, particularly those involved in the Kebbi ambush.
Lt Col Osoba concluded that troop morale remains high, reflecting courage, professionalism, and dedication to duty. “We will not relent until these criminal elements are decisively dealt with,” he said.
