Army Foils Terror Plots, Neutralises 9 Bandits Across North West

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA have foiled coordinated terrorist operations in Katsina and Zamfara States, neutralising nine suspected bandits, including two identified kingpins, in a series of engagements carried out between 1 and 3 May 2026.

The operations also led to the recovery of four AK-47 rifles, nine motorcycles, ammunition, mobile phones and cash suspected to be proceeds of criminal activities.

The development was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division / Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba.

In Katsina State, troops of Forward Operating Base Fudma encountered armed terrorists along the Turare–Yantumaki Road in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area during a routine fighting patrol.

The statement said the troops engaged the attackers in a gun duel, killing four terrorists and recovering weapons and other items from the scene.

According to the Army, “the troops neutralised four terrorists and recovered two AK-47 rifles with magazines, ammunition, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones and the sum of ₦153,000.”

In Zamfara State, troops of Forward Operating Base Bagega conducted sustained operations in Anka Local Government Area between 2 and 3 May, resulting in the killing of seven terrorists, including two kingpins identified as Anaruwa and Gomina.

The statement noted that Anaruwa was the younger brother of a known terrorist commander, Kachalla Idi Aiki.

During the first contact on 2 May, troops engaged terrorists along the Bagega–Anka Road, forcing them to retreat and abandon motorcycles. The attackers later regrouped and attempted a counterattack on the Bagega base.

With reinforcement from other combat units and support from precision airstrikes, the troops repelled the attack, killing three terrorists in the process.

In the words of Lieutenant Colonel Osoba, “reinforced troops, supported by precision airstrikes, successfully repelled the assault and neutralised additional terrorists during the engagement.”

Follow-up operations led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles with loaded magazines and seven motorcycles.

On 3 May, troops again intercepted and neutralised two fleeing terrorists in the same general area. One soldier was killed during the operation.

The Army added that troops have consolidated their presence in Bagega to sustain operational control and deny criminals freedom of movement.

Osoba added that, “Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains committed to dismantling terrorist networks and restoring peace across affected communities,” while urging residents to support security efforts with timely intelligence.