Troops of Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA have dismantled a terrorist stronghold in Katsina State, neutralising a key commander and recovering arms, ammunition and motorcycles during a clearance operation.
The operation was conducted on Saturday, August 29, 2026, by troops of Sector 2 in identified terrorist enclaves within Matazu Local Government Area of the state.
According to an official statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the troops encountered stiff resistance from armed terrorists during the clearance operation.
He said the troops responded decisively with superior firepower, forcing the terrorists to flee the area.
During the subsequent exploitation of the area, the troops confirmed the neutralisation of a terrorist identified as Smally, described as a key commander operating under the notorious terrorist leader, Kachalla Muhammadu Filani.
The troops also recovered three machine guns, two AK-47 rifles, 11 magazines, 180 rounds of ammunition and six motorcycles reportedly used by the terrorists for their activities.
The task force said the operation forms part of its sustained efforts to mount pressure on terrorist networks and dismantle their operational capabilities across the Joint Operations Area.
It added that troops remain resolute in taking the fight to the terrorists, denying them freedom of action and creating conditions for the restoration of lasting peace and security across affected communities.
