Troops of the 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have successfully neutralised three terrorists during a high-stakes ambush in the Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The operation, which took place on the night of May 9, 2026, is part of an ongoing offensive designed to dismantle criminal networks operating within the state.
Acting on intelligence regarding terrorists fleeing military pressure in the Matazu general area, troops from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) FUDMA established tactical blocking positions along the Turare-Kitibawa-Kuka-Mai Damusa Road.
At approximately 9:40 PM, the troops intercepted a group of armed insurgents. In the ensuing engagement, the Nigerian Army successfully neutralised three of the criminals, while others scattered into the surrounding bush.
Following the skirmish, a thorough sweep of the area resulted in the recovery of several items used by the group. Among the seized hardware was one AK-47 rifle and a magazine loaded with three rounds of ammunition. Additionally, troops recovered one motorcycle, three cutlasses, assorted charms, and a cash sum of ₦3,500.
In a statement released on May 10, Captain Abayomi Adisa, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 17 Brigade, emphasised that the military has no intention of slowing down.
“Troops have sustained the offensive against the criminal elements with a view to restoring peace to the state,” Captain Adisa stated.
The Nigerian Army is urging residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security forces. Officials noted that community cooperation remains a vital pillar in the ongoing mission to rid Katsina State of banditry and terrorism.
