Troops Kill Two Terrorists in Katsina Raid

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have killed two suspected terrorists and recovered a cache of weapons, motorcycles and rustled livestock during a coordinated operation in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

According to an operational report released on Monday, the raid was carried out in the early hours of the day under the military’s ongoing Operation Clean Sweep III campaign.

The report stated that soldiers from the 17 Brigade launched an intelligence-driven assault on a suspected terrorist hideout located in Ginchawa village after receiving credible information about the activities of armed criminal groups operating in the area.

Military authorities said the terrorists attempted to engage the advancing troops but were forced to retreat after encountering overwhelming firepower. The fleeing suspects reportedly escaped into nearby bushes while troops pursued them along identified withdrawal routes before eventually losing contact.

During a search of the enclave, security forces recovered two PKT machine guns, a locally fabricated firearm, an AK-47 magazine, and 75 rounds of 7.62mm NATO linked ammunition. Other items seized included three motorcycles, two mobile phones and a camouflage uniform.

The operation also led to the recovery of several cows and goats believed to have been stolen by the terrorists during previous rustling activities.

The military confirmed that two terrorists were neutralised during the raid, adding that evidence found at the scene suggested that other members of the group may have escaped with gunshot injuries. Blood stains discovered within the hideout indicated that additional casualties were likely inflicted during the encounter.

The army described the operation as part of sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt criminal activities and restore security across communities in the North-West region.