Troops foil terror plot in Zamfara, Katsina

Troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, have foiled what security authorities described as coordinated terrorist plots in parts of Zamfara and Katsina states, killing nine militants, including two notorious kingpins, during a series of operations carried out between May 1 and May 3, 2026.

The military also recovered four AK-47 rifles, several motorcycles, mobile phones, ammunition, and cash during the offensives.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division/Sector 2 Operation Fansan Yamma, Lt Col Olaniyi Osoba, the operations dealt a major blow to armed groups operating in the North-West.

He said troops on fighting patrol from Forward Operating Base Fudma engaged terrorists along the Turare–Yantumaki Road in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area, where four militants were neutralised.

“In the ensuing firefight, troops neutralised four terrorists and recovered two AK-47 rifles, two magazines, ammunition, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones and the sum of N153,000,” Osoba said.

In a separate operation in Anka Local Government Area, troops from Forward Operating Base Bagega reportedly killed five additional terrorists, including two wanted kingpins identified as Anaruwa and Gomina.

Osoba disclosed that Anaruwa was the younger brother of Kachalla Idi Aiki, a known terrorist commander in the region.

He explained that the first encounter occurred along the Bagega–Anka Road when troops confronted armed terrorists riding motorcycles.

“The terrorists initially retreated and abandoned their motorcycles, but later regrouped and launched a counterattack on Forward Operating Base Bagega,” he said.

He added that reinforcements supported by precision airstrikes from the Air Component repelled the assault.

“A second wave of eight terrorists on four motorcycles was engaged, resulting in the neutralisation of three terrorists. During exploitation, troops recovered two AK-47 rifles with loaded magazines and seven motorcycles,” he stated.

The army spokesman further revealed that troops pursuing fleeing militants on May 3 encountered two more terrorists on motorcycles and killed them instantly.

“Troops have consolidated their presence in Bagega and are maintaining dominance over the area to prevent further threats,” Osoba added.

He, however, confirmed that one soldier was killed during the operations.

Operation Fansan Yamma reaffirmed its commitment to restoring peace in the North-West and urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.