Troops of Sector 2 under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have thwarted planned terrorist attacks in parts of Katsina and Zamfara states, killing nine insurgents, including two identified kingpins, during coordinated operations conducted between May 1 and 3, 2026.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the troops also recovered arms, motorcycles and other items during the operations.
“In Katsina State, troops of the Forward Operating Base Fudma, while on a fighting patrol, encountered terrorists along the Turare–Yantumaki Road in Dutsinma Local Government Area,” Osoba said.
“In the ensuing firefight, four terrorists were neutralised, while troops recovered two AK-47 rifles with magazines, ammunition, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones and the sum of ₦153,000.”
He added that in a separate operation in Zamfara State, troops of the Forward Operating Base Bagega carried out a “high-stakes mission” in Anka Local Government Area between May 2 and 3.
“The operation resulted in the neutralisation of seven terrorists, including two notorious kingpins identified as Anaruwa and Gomina. Anaruwa was the younger brother of Kachalla Idi Aiki, a known terrorist commander,” he stated.
Providing further details, Osoba explained that during an initial encounter on May 2 along the Bagega–Anka Road, “four armed terrorists on two motorcycles were forced to retreat, abandoning their motorbikes.”
He said the terrorists later regrouped and launched a counterattack on the Bagega base.
“Following reinforcement by various combat teams and supported by precision airstrikes from the Air Component, troops repelled the assault. A second wave of eight terrorists on four motorcycles was engaged, leading to the neutralisation of three terrorists,” he said.
“During exploitation, troops recovered two AK-47 rifles with loaded magazines and seven motorcycles.”
Osoba further disclosed that during a follow-up operation on May 3, troops encountered and neutralised two additional terrorists in the same area.
“Regrettably, one soldier paid the ultimate sacrifice during the operation,” he added.
The army spokesman noted that troops have since consolidated their presence in Bagega to prevent further threats.
