In a series of high-impact operations conducted on May 9, 2026, troops of Sector 2 Joint Task Force, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, recorded significant successes against terrorist elements and criminal syndicates across several Local Government Areas in Katsina State.
The intensified offensive, spanning Matazu, Musawa, Kankia, Dutsin-Ma, and Malumfashi, resulted in the neutralisation of insurgents, the recovery of rustled assets, and the dismantling of a local narcotics network.
Acting on credible intelligence regarding terrorists fleeing military pressure in the Dikawa area, troops of the 171 Battalion stationed at Forward Operating Base FUDMA intercepted a group of insurgents along the Matazu–Dutsin-Ma axis. A fierce firefight ensued, leading to the neutralisation of three terrorists. Following the encounter, security forces recovered two AK-47 rifles with loaded magazines, a motorcycle, three cutlasses, and a collection of assorted charms.
The momentum continued as troops, supported by the Katsina State Community Watch Corps, executed clearance operations targeting hideouts in Matazu, Musawa, and Kankia LGAs. Military pressure forced insurgents to abandon their camps at Torcachi, Giginya, and Tashar Ganji villages.
During the sweep, troops recovered 175 rustled livestock. The animals are currently being held in military custody and are slated for handover to local authorities in Matazu LGA for eventual return to their rightful owners.
In a separate move to curb the flow of illicit substances fueling regional instability, troops from FOB Malumfashi conducted a joint raid with operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at Kauyan Dawo.
The operation led to the arrest of six suspected drug peddlers: Sani Rabiu, Umar Nasiru, Abulkubus Aminu, Abdullahi Halilu, Abubakar Rabiu, and Abubakar Dahiru. Officials seized quantities of Cannabis Sativa, Exol-5, and D5 during the bust. Both the suspects and the contraband have been transferred to the NDLEA Malumfashi Area Command for further investigation.
Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force (North West), reaffirmed the Theatre Command’s dedication to maintaining aggressive operations against all security threats.
He emphasised that the military remains resolute in its mission and urged members of the public to continue assisting security agencies with timely and actionable information to ensure lasting peace in the region. #Securitynewsalert.com
