Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have thwarted multiple terrorist attacks in Katsina and Kebbi states, neutralising two terrorists, rescuing abducted construction workers and recovering weapons and operational motorcycles.
The operations, conducted across the Joint Operations Area, also involved collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in an operation that led to the seizure of illicit drugs in Katsina State.
In Katsina State, troops of Sector 2 responded to reported terrorist activities in Kankia Local Government Area on August 14, 2026.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce firefight, neutralising two of them and forcing the remaining elements to flee the area.
The troops subsequently recovered an AK-47 rifle and a magazine from the scene.
In a separate operation in southern Kebbi State, troops operating under Operation CLEAN SWEEP IV responded to a distress call following the abduction of construction workers at Tsatsunbe village.
The troops swiftly mobilised to the area and engaged the terrorists, forcing them to abandon their captives and flee.
Three motorcycles belonging to the fleeing terrorists were recovered, while all the abducted construction workers were rescued and safely returned to their camp.
One of the workers, who sustained injuries during the incident, was evacuated to a military medical facility, where he is currently receiving treatment.
The task force also strengthened its inter-agency operations by supporting personnel of the NDLEA Malumfashi Area Command in a joint raid on a suspected drug dealer’s hideout in Gozaki village, Kafur Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The operation resulted in the recovery of significant quantities of suspected illicit drugs, which were handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and necessary action.
The latest operations, according to the task force, demonstrate the military’s commitment to protecting communities, securing critical economic activities and denying terrorists and other criminal elements freedom of action within the Joint Operations Area.
The Theatre Command said it would continue to intensify operations against terrorists and other criminal elements while protecting vulnerable communities across the North-West.
“The Theatre Command remains resolute in its mission to relentlessly pursue criminal elements, defend vulnerable populations, and foster a secure environment where citizens can conduct their legitimate daily activities without fear,” the statement said.
The military also reaffirmed its commitment to sustained operations aimed at restoring peace and ensuring the safety of residents across the affected areas.
The statement was signed by Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, on August 15, 2026.
