By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have repelled successive waves of terrorist attacks on communities in Zamfara State, while airstrikes neutralised scores of terrorists attempting to move suspected rustled cattle from the affected areas.
The troops also neutralised one terrorist and recovered two fabricated rifles, two motorcycles, mobile phones and other items during separate operations in Kaduna State.
The operations, conducted on November 14, 2026, formed part of sustained efforts by the Joint Task Force to dismantle terrorist networks, protect vulnerable communities and deny armed groups freedom of movement across the North West.
In Zamfara State, troops of Sector 2 responded to attacks by terrorists riding motorcycles on Wuya and Yarzabia communities in Anka Local Government Area.
The troops engaged the attackers with superior firepower, forcing them to retreat. However, the terrorists regrouped and launched a second wave of attacks but were again decisively repelled as troops maintained their defensive positions.
Reinforcements subsequently arrived and extended operations to adjoining communities, while troops sustained aggressive patrols to prevent further incursions and reassure residents.
In a coordinated air-ground operation, the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA deployed a combat aircraft to support ground troops responding to the attacks.
During the mission, the aircraft identified a group of terrorists attempting to move a large herd of suspected rustled cattle away from the affected communities.
The terrorists were engaged in multiple airstrikes, resulting in the neutralisation of scores of them.
Similarly, in Kaduna State, troops of Sector 1, acting on credible intelligence about suspected terrorist activities around farmlands in Aguba Village, Kajuru Local Government Area, conducted a fighting patrol to the area.
The troops encountered the terrorists and engaged them in a firefight, neutralising one while others fled.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of two fabricated rifles, a mobile phone, substances suspected to be cannabis and other illicit drugs, as well as recharge cards.
In another operation along the Buruku-Kaduna Road, troops acting on intelligence about terrorist movements encountered armed elements and engaged them in a gun battle.
Overwhelmed by the troops’ response, the terrorists fled into an adjoining forest, abandoning two motorcycles which were subsequently recovered.
The troops continued pursuit and exploitation operations to track down the fleeing terrorists and deny them freedom of action.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA said the operational successes underscored its determination to sustain pressure on terrorist elements, protect vulnerable communities and create a secure environment for farming and other socioeconomic activities across the North West.
The Theatre Command commended the troops for their resilience and fighting spirit, urging them to sustain the operational momentum.
It also called on members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, assuring that the Joint Task Force remained committed to restoring lasting peace and security across the region.
