The Nigerian Army's Sector 2 troops, operating under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have achieved significant successes in counter-terrorism operations conducted across Katsina and Zamfara states between May 1 and May 3, 2026. These coordinated efforts resulted in the neutralisation of nine terrorists, including two notorious kingpins, and the recovery of a substantial cache of weapons and motorcycles.

In Katsina State, troops from the Forward Operating Base Fudma engaged terrorists while on a fighting patrol along the Turare–Yantumaki Road in the Dutsinma Local Government Area. During the ensuing firefight, four terrorists were neutralised. The troops successfully recovered two AK-47 rifles with two magazines, several rounds of ammunition, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones, and a sum of one hundred and fifty-three thousand naira (N153,000).

A separate, high-stakes operation was carried out in Zamfara State between May 2 and May 3, 2026, by troops stationed at Forward Operating Base Bagega in the Anka Local Government Area. This operation initially led to the neutralisation of seven terrorists, including two prominent kingpins identified as Anaruwa and Gomina. Notably, Anaruwa was confirmed to be the younger brother of Kachalla Idi Aiki, a known terrorist commander.

During the initial phase of the Zamfara operation on May 2, 2026, troops along the Bagega–Anka Road engaged armed terrorists. This initial clash compelled four terrorists on two motorcycles to retreat, abandoning their bikes. However, the terrorists regrouped and launched a counterattack on the Forward Operating Base Bagega.

Responding swiftly, the troops received reinforcements from various combat teams and crucial support from precision airstrikes delivered by the air component. This combined effort enabled them to successfully repel the counterattack. A second wave of eight terrorists, mounted on four motorcycles, was subsequently engaged, leading to the neutralisation of three more terrorists. A follow-on operation conducted on May 3, 2026, in the same area resulted in the encounter and neutralisation of two additional terrorists on motorbikes.

Overall recoveries from the Zamfara operations included two AK-47 rifles with loaded magazines and seven motorcycles. Tragically, one soldier paid the ultimate sacrifice during these intensive operations. Following these successful engagements, the troops have consolidated their presence in Bagega, ensuring continued dominance over the area to prevent future threats. Operation Fansan Yamma reaffirms its unwavering dedication to protecting citizens and urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies.