By Nkechi Eze
Troops of 1 Division/Sector 1, Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), have successfully foiled a bandit attack and neutralised one suspected violent extremist during a rapid response operation in the Maraban Rido general area of Kaduna State.
The operation followed a distress call received late on 22 January 2026, reporting the presence of armed bandits who had rustled livestock from Anguwan Fulan village within the Rido axis. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, troops were immediately deployed to the area and executed a hasty ambush aimed at intercepting the fleeing criminals.
On arrival, troops made contact with the bandits and engaged them with superior firepower, forcing the attackers to retreat in disarray, with several sustaining gunshot wounds. During the encounter, one suspected terrorist was neutralised.
Following the initial contact, troops carried out aggressive exploitation of surrounding forested areas to prevent the criminals from regrouping or escaping. This led to further contact at a suspected crossing point around Anguwan Sarki, extending into the Kankomi forest, as troops sustained pressure on the fleeing elements.
The successful operation underscores the continued resolve of Operation FANSAN YAMMA troops to respond decisively to threats, protect lives and property, and deny criminal elements freedom of action within Kaduna State and the wider Joint Operations Area.
