Troops foil terror plot in Katsina, Zamfara, neutralise nine

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By Kingsley Omonobi
Troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, have foiled a planned attack and neutralised nine terrorists, including two identified kingpins, during coordinated operations in Katsina and Zamfara States between 1 and 3 May 2026.

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The operations also led to the recovery of four AK-47 rifles, ammunition, motorcycles, mobile phones, and cash.

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A military spokesperson, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, said troops recorded significant breakthroughs during separate engagements in both states.

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In Katsina State, troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Fudma, while on a fighting patrol along the Turare–Yantumaki Road in Dutsinma Local Government Area, engaged terrorists in a gun duel.

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Four terrorists were neutralised in the encounter, while two AK-47 rifles, magazines, ammunition, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones, and ₦153,000 were recovered.

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In Zamfara State, troops of FOB Bagega conducted operations between 2 and 3 May in Anka Local Government Area, which resulted in the neutralisation of additional terrorists, including two identified kingpins.

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According to the statement, an initial encounter on 2 May along the Bagega–Anka Road forced some terrorists to abandon motorcycles as they retreated.

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The attackers later attempted a counteroffensive on the base but were repelled with the support of reinforcement teams and precision air support from the Air Component. Three terrorists were neutralised during the exchange.

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Subsequent follow-up operations on 3 May led to the neutralisation of two more terrorists in the same general area.

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Weapons, including AK-47 rifles and motorcycles, were also recovered during the operations.
The military confirmed that one soldier lost his life during the engagements.

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Troops have since consolidated their presence in the area to prevent further threats, while urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.

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Operation Fansan Yamma reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing counter-terrorism operations aimed at restoring stability across the affected regions.

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