By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has announced the neutralisation of nine terrorists, including two key kingpins, in a series of coordinated operations across Zamfara and Katsina States, as troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA intensified efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the North-West.
According to an official signed statement by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division and Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the operations conducted between May 1 and 3, 2026, also led to the recovery of four AK-47 rifles, nine motorcycles, mobile phones, and cash.
The statement revealed that in Katsina State, troops of the Forward Operating Base Fudma, while on a fighting patrol along the Turare–Yantumaki Road in Dutsinma Local Government Area, engaged terrorists in a fierce firefight. During the encounter, four terrorists were neutralised, while troops recovered two AK-47 rifles with magazines, ammunition, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones, and the sum of ₦153,000.
In a separate operation in Zamfara State, troops of the Forward Operating Base Bagega carried out a high-risk offensive in Anka Local Government Area between May 2 and 3, resulting in the elimination of several terrorists, including two notorious kingpins identified as Anaruwa and Gomina. Anaruwa was reported to be the younger brother of Kachalla Idi Aiki, a known terrorist commander.
The statement further disclosed that during the initial phase of the Zamfara operation on May 2, troops engaged armed terrorists along the Bagega–Anka Road, forcing them to abandon their motorcycles and flee. However, the terrorists later regrouped and launched a counterattack on the Forward Operating Base.
With reinforcements from multiple combat teams and precision air support from the Air Component, troops successfully repelled the assault. In the ensuing engagement, three terrorists were neutralised, and additional weapons, including two AK-47 rifles and seven motorcycles, were recovered.
A follow-on operation conducted on May 3 led to the interception and elimination of two more terrorists on motorbikes within the same area.
The Army, however, confirmed that one soldier lost his life during the operation.
The statement added that troops have since consolidated their positions in Bagega and continue to dominate the area to prevent further terrorist incursions. It reiterated the commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to safeguarding lives and property, while urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
