Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have successfully foiled repeated terrorist attacks on two communities in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The attacks on Wuya and Yarzabia communities occurred on November 14, 2026, with the terrorists arriving on motorcycles. The troops of Sector 2 resisted the attackers, engaging them in a firefight that forced them to withdraw. However, the terrorists regrouped and launched another assault but were again repelled by the troops.

The Joint Task Force North West disclosed that additional troops were deployed to reinforce security personnel, and operations were extended to nearby communities. The military intensified patrols in the affected areas to prevent further attacks and restore residents' confidence. The Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma provided aerial support to the ground troops, deploying a combat aircraft during the operation. The aircraft sighted a group of terrorists attempting to move a large herd of suspected rustled cattle.

The terrorists were engaged in multiple air strikes, with scores of terrorists neutralized. The statement from the Joint Task Force North West did not provide a specific number of casualties. The military operation demonstrates the ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity in the North-West region of Nigeria. The troops' determination and commitment have been praised by the Theatre Command.

In Kaduna State, troops of Sector 1 carried out a fighting patrol around farmlands in Aguba Village, Kajuru Local Government Area. Intelligence reports had indicated suspected terrorist activities in the area. The troops encountered an armed group, engaging them in a gun battle that resulted in the death of one suspect. The others escaped, and a search led to the recovery of two locally fabricated rifles and other items.

The recovered items included a mobile phone, substances suspected to be cannabis and other illicit drugs, as well as recharge cards. In another operation, troops intercepted a group of suspected terrorists moving along Buruku–Kaduna Road, following intelligence reports about their activities. The encounter resulted in a gun battle, forcing the terrorists to flee into a nearby forest and abandon two motorcycles.

The troops recovered the motorcycles and continued pursuit and clearance operations to prevent the fleeing suspects from regrouping. The Theatre Command urged the troops to maintain the momentum of ongoing operations. The command also appealed to residents to provide security agencies with credible and timely information that could aid efforts to tackle insecurity and restore lasting peace across the North-West.

The recent operations in Zamfara and Kaduna States reflect the military's efforts to address the security challenges in Nigeria's North-West region. The region has experienced various forms of insecurity, including banditry and terrorism. The military has been working to restore peace and stability, with a focus on community engagement and intelligence-driven operations.

Key points

  • The Nigerian military has foiled terrorist attacks in Zamfara State and killed suspects in Kaduna State, recovering arms and other items.
  • The operations were carried out by troops of Operation Fansan Yamma, with air support from the Air Component.
  • The military has urged residents to provide credible and timely information to aid efforts to tackle insecurity.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.