Troops of Sector 1 and Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have recorded a series of operational successes across Kaduna and Zamfara States, including the rescue of kidnapped victims, foiling of planned terrorist attacks, and arrest of suspected extremists.
In a statement Media Information Officer Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA Lieut. Col. Aliyu Danja issued on June 18, 2026, troops of Sector 1 responded to a distress call on the movement of armed bandits around a forest in Kerawa, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The troops swiftly mobilised to the area, combed the forest, and successfully rescued three victims: Mrs. Bilkisu Hayatu (38), Mrs. Habibah Sadisu (30), and one-year-old Abdulmutallib Sadisu.
The victims were found abandoned by fleeing kidnappers who escaped upon sighting advancing troops. They were evacuated to a Primary Healthcare Centre in Kadage for medical attention. Preliminary findings indicated that the victims were abducted from Kajenjere Tami Village in Birnin Yero on May 17, 2026, and were being moved toward a terrorist hideout in Birnin Gwari before the intervention.
In a separate operation in the early hours of June 20, 2026, troops of Sector 2, in collaboration with other security agencies, foiled a planned attack on Gamdanda Village in Gummi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Acting on credible intelligence, the troops laid an ambush on suspected movement routes of the terrorists and engaged them, forcing them to retreat in disarray.
Following the encounter, troops recovered weapons, ammunition, eight motorcycles, and food supplies, thereby disrupting the operational capacity of the attackers.
In another intelligence-led operation in Zamfara State, Sector 2 troops, working with operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency, arrested four suspected violent extremists and informants. Several incriminating items were recovered, while the suspects remain in custody for further investigation and prosecution.
Troops also apprehended a suspected terrorist identified as Muhammad Mamman, whose inconsistent statements regarding his identity and activities raised suspicion. He is currently undergoing interrogation.
In Maru Local Government Area, troops of Sector 2, supported by reinforcements from 1 Brigade, successfully repelled a terrorist attack. The troops engaged the attackers and inflicted significant casualties, as indicated by blood trails along their withdrawal route. However, three soldiers lost their lives during the encounter.
In another development, troops acting on intelligence intercepted terrorists riding motorcycles en route to Tudun Barade and Badamma villages in Bakura Local Government Area. The troops’ aggressive patrol forced the attackers to abandon their mission and retreat before any attack could be carried out, ensuring the safety of the communities.
The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, commended the troops for their courage, professionalism, and resilience, and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to sustaining offensive operations against terrorist and bandit networks across the region.
He also paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, describing them as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation.
The Command further appreciated the support of members of the public, particularly in providing timely intelligence, and urged continued cooperation to enhance ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and security in the North West.
