Troops of the Joint Task Force, North West, under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have recorded significant operational successes in Kebbi and Zamfara states, neutralising terrorists and rescuing abducted civilians in renewed efforts to improve security across the region.
The military operations, carried out in separate locations based on credible intelligence, targeted known terrorist and bandit elements operating along key corridors and forest enclaves in the North West. Security officials said the actions form part of sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks and restore stability to affected communities.
In Kebbi State, troops operating under Sector 2 ambushed members of the Lakurawa terrorist group near Augie Local Government Area, close to the Kebbi–Sokoto border. The operation took place at Kerani Village, an area security sources described as a strategic route frequently used by criminal elements.
During the encounter, two terrorists were neutralised by the troops. Two motorcycles used by the group were also recovered at the scene.
According to military sources, the motorcycles were equipped with accessories designed to support long-distance movement. This, they said, pointed to the group’s intention to sustain mobility and logistics for cross-border criminal activities in the region.
The Kebbi operation was reportedly carried out in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilante groups. Officials said the cooperation reflected an increasing coordination between conventional security forces and community-based security structures across the Northwest.
Security authorities noted that such collaboration has continued to improve intelligence gathering and response time. They added that local knowledge provided by community groups has been critical in identifying routes and hideouts used by terrorists.
In a separate operation in Zamfara State, troops stormed Munhaye Forest, a location identified as a hideout of a notorious bandit leader known as Kachalla Alti. The raid followed intelligence reports that a large number of kidnapped victims were being held in the forest.
The operation resulted in the successful rescue of 62 abducted persons. Military authorities confirmed that the victims were safely extracted from the area and moved to secure locations.
Officials said the rescued victims are currently in safe custody. Arrangements are being made for their profiling, medical evaluation, and psychological support before they are reunited with their families.
Military sources described the Zamfara operation as a major breakthrough against bandit networks operating in forested areas of the state. They said sustained pressure on such hideouts has continued to disrupt criminal activities and reduce threats to surrounding communities.
The latest successes were described as part of the broader objectives of Operation FANSAN YAMMA. The operation aims to degrade terrorist and bandit groups, secure rural communities, and deny criminal elements freedom of movement across state borders.
Security authorities said the operations also align with a national strategy to restore public confidence and ensure the safety of lives and property. They added that efforts are ongoing to clear remaining criminal enclaves and prevent regrouping.
Military officials reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with other security agencies, state governments, and local stakeholders. They stressed that lasting peace would require sustained cooperation and shared responsibility.
Citizens were urged to continue providing timely and credible information to security forces. Authorities said such information remains vital in supporting ongoing operations and preventing future attacks.
The military assured residents of the North West and the country at large that operations would continue until criminal elements are decisively weakened. Officials said the armed forces remain focused on protecting communities and restoring normalcy across affected areas.
