By Nkechi Eze
In a significant operational breakthrough, troops of the 17 Brigade under Operation Fasan Yamma have neutralized eight terrorists during an early morning gun battle along the Kurfi–Batsari Road in Katsina State. The firefight, which took place at about 5:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 18, 2025, marked a decisive blow against the criminal elements terrorizing communities in the region.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General MG Kangye, the encounter occurred when troops stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Kurfi came into contact with the armed terrorists while conducting routine patrols. The troops promptly engaged the assailants in a fierce exchange of gunfire that ultimately led to the neutralization of eight bandits.
The operation also led to the recovery of a cache of weapons and ammunition, including five AK-47 rifles, six magazines, and 13 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, further weakening the firepower of the insurgents.
While the troops emerged victorious, one soldier was reportedly wounded during the operation and has since been evacuated to the 17 Brigade Medical Centre where he is receiving medical attention. Military sources confirmed that the soldier is in stable condition.
Major General Kangye praised the professionalism and bravery of the soldiers involved, noting that their swift response prevented what could have been a deadly ambush or civilian attack. “The troops demonstrated exceptional courage and tactical precision in thwarting the terrorists’ intentions. Their actions are a testament to our ongoing commitment to ridding the country of violent criminal elements,” the statement read.
He further assured the public that the security situation in the area remains calm, and that the morale and fighting efficiency of troops in the theatre of operations are high.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its resolve to safeguard citizens and maintain stability across volatile regions, urging the public to continue supporting the Armed Forces with timely information that could aid counter-terrorism operations.
This latest success adds to the growing list of operational victories recorded under Operation Fasan Yamma as the military intensifies efforts to dismantle bandit networks and restore peace across Nigeria’s North-West.
