The Nigerian Army has recorded another operational success in Zamfara State, neutralising a suspected terrorist, rescuing three kidnapped victims, and dismantling a criminal hideout during a coordinated security operation.

The breakthrough was achieved by troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, during a patrol mission across parts of Zurmi and Shinkafi Local Government Areas aimed at flushing out bandits and restoring security in the region.

According to an operational update released on Saturday, the troops encountered armed terrorists while conducting a fighting patrol through Birnin Saba, Yanbuki and Sabon Garin Daudawa communities in Zurmi Local Government Area.

The encounter led to a fierce exchange of gunfire, during which one terrorist was killed, while several others escaped with injuries into nearby bushes.

Security operatives recovered a cache of items from the scene, including rifles, four loaded magazines, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones, two MP3 players, a woodland camouflage trouser and an inner vest.

Following the initial engagement, the troops advanced toward Sabon Garin Daudawa, maintaining pressure on the fleeing criminals. On sighting the advancing forces, the terrorists reportedly abandoned their camp and fled.

The military subsequently cleared and destroyed the camp, a move aimed at preventing its future use as a base for criminal operations.

In a further boost to the operation, soldiers rescued three kidnapped victims during clearance activities in the area and safely evacuated them from the conflict zone.

The military reaffirmed its determination to sustain aggressive operations against terrorist and bandit groups operating in Zamfara and other parts of the North-West, pledging to continue efforts until lasting peace and security are restored in affected communities.