Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA have thwarted a planned terrorist attack across parts of Zamfara and Katsina states, neutralised nine insurgents including two key kingpins in coordinated operations conducted between May 1 and 3, 2026.
The disclosure was made by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, who said troops also recovered four AK-47 rifles, several magazines, ammunition, nine motorcycles, mobile phones, and cash during the operations.
According to Osoba, in Katsina State, troops from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Fudma, while on a fighting patrol along the Turare–Yantumaki Road in Dutsinma Local Government Area, encountered armed terrorists. In the ensuing gun battle, four of the assailants were neutralised, while troops recovered two AK-47 rifles, two magazines, ammunition, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones, and ₦153,000.
He further explained that in Zamfara State, troops at FOB Bagega carried out a series of engagements in Anka Local Government Area, resulting in the neutralisation of five additional terrorists, including two notorious kingpins identified as Anaruwa and Gomina. Anaruwa, he noted, was the younger brother of Kachalla Idi Aiki, a known terrorist commander.
Osoba said on May 2, troops initially engaged terrorists along the Bagega–Anka Road, forced four of them to flee and abandon their motorcycles. The insurgents later regrouped and launched a counterattack on the Bagega base.
“Reinforced by additional combat units and supported by precision airstrikes from the Air Component, troops successfully repelled the assault. A second wave of eight terrorists riding on four motorcycles was intercepted, leading to the neutralisation of three more fighters,” he said.
He added that a follow-up mission on May 3 led to the neutralisation of two additional terrorists in the same area, though one soldier paid the supreme price during the operation.
Osoba noted that troops have since strengthened their presence in Bagega and surrounding areas to forestall further attacks, Reaffirmed Operation FANSAN YAMMA’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property while urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
