Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have sustained their offensive against terrorist networks in Katsina State, neutralising a key terrorist lieutenant and recovering machine guns, arms, ammunition and other operational items during clearance operations.
The Nigerian Army said the operation was conducted on August 29, 2026, as troops intensified efforts to dismantle terrorist enclaves and disrupt criminal activities across the Joint Operations Area.
According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, troops of Sector 2 encountered stiff resistance from armed terrorists while conducting clearance operations in identified terrorist hideouts in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The troops, however, responded with superior firepower, forcing the terrorists to flee the area.
During the subsequent exploitation of the area, the troops confirmed the neutralisation of a terrorist identified as Smally, said to be a lieutenant of the notorious terrorist leader, Kachalla Muhammadu Filani.
Items recovered during the operation included three machine guns, two AK-47 rifles, 11 magazines, 180 rounds of ammunition and six motorcycles allegedly used by the terrorists for their operations.
The military said the operation formed part of sustained efforts by Operation FANSAN YAMMA to maintain pressure on terrorist networks, degrade their operational capabilities and deny them freedom of action across the North-West.
Troops, the statement added, remained resolute in taking the fight to terrorist groups and creating conditions for the restoration of lasting peace and security in affected communities.
