TROOPS OF OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA DEAL HEAVY BLOW TO TERRORISTS, RESCUE ABDUCTEES IN SOKOTO AND KATSINA STATES

Troops OF Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA in a sustained effort to rid the North West region of terrorism and banditry have recorded another significant operational successes. Through a series of coordinated offensive operations across Sokoto and Katsina States, the gallant troops neutralised armed terrorists, foiled a terrorist attack and thwarted a kidnapping attempt and recovered large cache of arms and rustled livestock.

The first of these decisive encounters occurred on 21 June 2026, when armed terrorists attempted to infiltrate Tureta town in Sokoto State. Responding swiftly to actionable intelligence, the vigilant troops engaged the criminals, forcing them to abandon their sinister mission and flee. 

Following this initial encounter, aerial surveillance tracked the fleeing terrorists to Sulubawa Gidan Kare village, where they were observed moving with abducted civilians and rustled livestock. Acting promptly, the troops launched a hot pursuit. Despite encountering a hastily mounted ambush by the retreating terrorists, the troops displayed exceptional courage and superior firepower, fighting through the ambush and compelling the criminals to scatter. This valiant effort led to the successful rescue of the abductees, the recovery of the rustled cattle and the seizure of 2 motorcycles used by the terrorists.

In a related development during the early hours of 22 June 2026, troops executed an intelligence-driven dawn raid on a known terrorist enclave in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. The surprise assault completely overwhelmed the terrorists. During the ensuing firefight, 2 terrorists were neutralised, while several others fled the scene with varying degrees of gunshot wounds. 

A thorough exploitation of the hideout yielded significant recoveries, including  One PKT assault rifle, one AK 47 rifle with a quantity of ammunition, 3 motorcycles, mobile communication devices, rustled livestock, and other logistical items used to facilitate their criminal enterprises.

These recent victories underscore the unwavering determination, professionalism, and resilience of the troops of JTF NW Operation FANSAN YAMMA in taking the fight directly to the enclaves of terrorist and criminal elements. We assure the public that aggressive operations will be sustained to dismantle all terrorist networks, deny them freedom of action and restore lasting peace and security across the North West region.

ALIYU DANJA

Lieutenant Colonel

Media Information Officer

Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA

22 June 2026