Troops from the Nigerian Army’s “Operation Clean Sweep” have delivered a decisive blow to terrorist networks in Katsina State, dismantling several criminal enclaves, destroying logistics structures, and rescuing a captive held in chains within the notorious Fafu Forest.
The sustained, intelligence-driven offensive was executed by a joint force comprising the 17 Brigade Strike Group, the Quick Response Force, and elements of the 8 Division Special Forces.
The ground operations were heavily supported by precision airstrikes from the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma.
On the fourth day of the coordinated mission, troops targeted entrenched terrorist strongholds in and around the Tuga area of Matazu Local Government Area.
Leveraging real-time Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) data, the forces successfully cleared several settlements and intercepted a massive haul of rustled livestock, including 36 cattle, 280 sheep, and two donkeys. Military officials noted that the recovery represents a severe disruption to the economic lifelines of the criminal groups, who rely heavily on cattle rustling to fund their operations.
Maintaining their momentum, the troops advanced deep into Fafu Forest under a “Relentless Incursion” strategy designed to deny the terrorists a haven.
Following intense aerial and artillery bombardments, ground forces moved into the difficult terrain, engaging remnants of the criminal groups and destroying multiple concealed camps.
During a post-battle exploitation of a hideout linked to a notorious terrorist leader, troops discovered a camp where kidnapped victims were being held in harsh conditions.
While two lifeless bodies were recovered at the scene, troops successfully rescued one survivor, identified as Nura Yar’Adua, who was found bound in chains. Yar’Adua was administered immediate first aid on-site before being evacuated to the Federal Teaching Hospital Katsina for advanced medical treatment.
Battlefield assessments confirmed that the joint operation resulted in significant enemy casualties and the total degradation of the terrorists’ operational and logistical capabilities in the region.
In a statement following the breakthrough, the Nigerian Army reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to defending the nation’s territorial integrity.
Military authorities urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with credible, timely information, reiterating that the fight against insecurity remains a collective national responsibility. #Securitynewsalert.com
