Troops Unleash Fury: Bandits Crushed, Captives Freed in Kaduna & Zamfara Blitz

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have undertaken a series of intelligence-led operations across Kaduna and Zamfara states, leading to the rescue of three kidnapped victims, the foiling of multiple planned terrorist attacks, and the arrest of several suspected extremists and collaborators. These extensive military actions underscore the intensified offensive against banditry and terrorism in the North-West region of Nigeria, as confirmed in statements by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, and operational reports made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

One significant operation occurred on June 18 when troops of Sector 1 responded to a distress call regarding armed bandit movement in a forest area in Kerawa, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State. This swift response led to the rescue of Mrs. Bilkisu Hayatu (38), Mrs. Habibah Sadisu (30), and a one-year-old child, Abdulmutallib Sadisu. The victims were reportedly abandoned by fleeing bandits upon sighting the advancing troops and were subsequently evacuated to a primary healthcare facility in Kadage for medical treatment. Preliminary investigations revealed that these individuals had been abducted from Kajenjere Tami Village in Birnin Yero on May 17 and were being moved to a terrorist hideout in Birnin Gwari before their successful liberation.

Further operations demonstrate the proactive posture of Operation FANSAN YAMMA. On June 20, troops of Sector 2, working in conjunction with other security agencies, successfully foiled a planned terrorist attack on Gamdanda Village in Gummi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Acting on timely intelligence, the troops established an ambush on the outskirts of the Gummi community, engaging the terrorists and forcing them to retreat. During this operation, military authorities reported the recovery of various weapons, ammunition, eight motorcycles, and assorted food items, disrupting the terrorists' logistical capabilities.

In a related intelligence gathering effort, troops collaborated with operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) to conduct a covert operation in Zamfara State. This led to the arrest of four suspected violent extremists and informants, from whom several incriminating items were recovered. These suspects are currently undergoing further investigation. Additionally, troops identified and arrested another suspected terrorist, Muhammad Mamman, due to inconsistencies observed in his stated identity and activities, placing him also under investigation.

The intensity of the ongoing conflict was also evident in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where troops repelled a terrorist attack. Following reinforcement from troops of 1 Brigade, the military engaged the terrorists, who suffered significant casualties, as indicated by blood trails observed along their withdrawal route. However, this encounter came at a cost, with three soldiers regrettably losing their lives during the operation.

In another development, intelligence-driven operations in Bakura Local Government Area allowed troops to intercept terrorists riding motorcycles towards Tudun Barade and Badamma villages. An aggressive fighting patrol was launched, which compelled the terrorists to abandon their mission and retreat before they could carry out any attacks, thereby securing the affected communities from impending danger.

The offensive extended to Kaduna State, where troops of 4 Demonstration Battalion neutralised two bandits in Lere village, Igabi Local Government Area. This action was part of a response to cattle rustling activities in the area, during which troops also recovered rustled cows, an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and ammunition, further crippling criminal networks.

In Zamfara State, the efforts against criminal elements continued with a cordon-and-search operation in Birnin Magaji, where troops apprehended four suspected collaborators allegedly linked to the notorious bandit kingpin, Gwaska Dan Karami. These suspects were identified as Alhaji Yahya Hoji, Abdullahi Dan Tsabaro, Kabiru Dan Gulgule, and Kalala. Furthermore, three additional suspects with alleged links to terrorist activities were arrested during the routine screening of returning pilgrims at Gusau International Airport, highlighting the comprehensive approach to security.

The military has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to sustaining the onslaught against bandits and terrorists across the North-West. They urged the public to continue providing support to the troops in their critical efforts to secure communities and restore peace and stability to the region.