Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY), Joint Task Force North West, have once again demonstrated exceptional bravery, professionalism, and resilience in the face of a terrorist ambush along the Bingi–Kekun Waje–Gusau Road in Zamfara State on 19 January 2026.
The ambush occurred following a series of successful offensive operations conducted between 17 and 19 January 2026 by troops of Sector 2 OPFY, in conjunction with the OPFY Mobile Strike Team and DIA Tactical Support Team, across Birnin Magaji and Anka Local Government Areas of Zamfara State. During the coordinated raids, three suspects — Isiya Kwakwatawa, Ibrahim Dan Musulu, and Makau Lamba Goma were arrested, while four terrorists were neutralised and several others fled into the forest. Items recovered included one PKT machine gun, five AK-47 rifles, three AK-47 magazines, several rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, Baofeng radios, and three motorcycles.
According to David Adewusi, Media Information Officer, Operation Fansan Yamma, these gains reflected the professionalism and coordination of the troops on the ground.
While returning from the operations and responding to a distress call on a terrorist reprisal attack, troops of OPFY Combat Team 1 came under a surprise ambush by terrorists at Gidan Wagni while en route to Kekun Waje. Despite the sudden attack, the troops responded gallantly, engaged the terrorists decisively and preventing further harm to nearby communities. Regrettably, five soldiers and one police officer paid the supreme sacrifice during the encounter.
Upon receipt of the distress report, the OPFY Mobile Strike Team, in conjunction with troops of 1 Brigade Quick Reaction Force from Forward Operating Bases Kanoma and Kekun Waje, swiftly mobilised to the scene. The reinforcement was personally led by the Commander, 1 Brigade, underscoring the high level of leadership, coordination, and commitment within the operation.
The combined force mounted a robust counter-ambush, compelling the terrorists to withdraw in disarray. Credible intelligence indicates that notorious bandit kingpins, Janwuya and Alhaji Bello — the second-in-command to Kachalla Soja — sustained serious gunshot injuries, while several fleeing terrorists were also wounded. Troops, supported by community vigilantes, conducted a pursuit operation, as further exploitation and offensive actions continue across the area.
Operation Fansan Yamma assured the general public that the situation is under control and reiterated its unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of innocent citizens, sustaining pressure on terrorist elements, and restoring lasting peace across the Joint Operations Area.
The Theatre Commander has condoled with the Commander, Sector 2, over the loss of personnel and commended the troops for their courage, sacrifice, and professionalism. He also urged members of the public to remain calm and continue to support ongoing security efforts by providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
