By kelvin John, Sokoto

Troops of Sector 2 of Operation Fansan Yamma have stepped up coordinated military operations across Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi States, successfully dismantling criminal networks and neutralising several bandits in the North-West.

In Sokoto State, soldiers from the COAS Intervention Battalion VII engaged bandits in two separate encounters at Magonho Forest on March 25, killing three and recovering three AK-47 rifles along with motorcycles used by the criminals.

In Zamfara State, troops carried out an ambush along the Gada Maya–Makakari Village road, neutralising two terrorists and seizing weapons, ammunition, a communication radio, mobile phones, and a motorcycle. Later, a retaliatory attack on Kaida Village was repelled, resulting in another bandit being neutralised and an AK-47 rifle recovered. A clearance operation in Dutsi Village, Zurmi Local Government Area, forced terrorists to abandon weapons, including one AK-47 rifle and 26 rounds of ammunition.

In Kebbi State, based on actionable intelligence, troops moved to Giron Masa in Shanga Local Government Area to target the Lakurawa Terrorist Group. Although the soldiers encountered an ambush by fleeing bandits, reinforcements were deployed to sustain the operation and maintain pressure on the criminal elements.

Military authorities confirmed that intelligence-driven operations are ongoing to track and neutralise escaping terrorists. They emphasised that the Nigerian Army remains committed to dominating the operational environment, degrading insurgent capabilities, and protecting law-abiding citizens across the North-West.

The Army also highlighted that troop morale remains high, praising the courage, professionalism, and dedication of the personnel in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s strategic directives to restore peace and stability in the region.