By: Abdullahi Inuwa
KATSINA — Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have intensified their offensive against terrorist groups in Katsina State, killing a suspected senior commander and recovering a cache of weapons and operational equipment.
The latest success was recorded on Saturday, August 29, 2026, during a clearance operation conducted by troops of Sector 2 in parts of Matazu Local Government Area, where terrorists had established enclaves.
According to the military, the troops came under heavy resistance from armed terrorists during the operation. The soldiers responded with superior firepower, forcing the attackers to abandon their positions and flee.
A subsequent search of the area led to the discovery of the body of a terrorist commander identified as “Smally.” The military said the suspect operated under the command of notorious terrorist leader Kachalla Muhammadu Filani.
The operation also yielded significant recoveries, including three machine guns, two AK-47 rifles, 11 magazines and 180 rounds of ammunition.
Six motorcycles believed to have been used by the terrorists to move personnel and conduct attacks were also seized by the troops.
The military described the operation as part of its sustained campaign to dismantle terrorist networks and deprive them of the weapons, mobility and freedom of action needed to operate across communities in the North-West.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA has continued to mount pressure on terrorist elements across its Joint Operations Area, with troops conducting clearance operations aimed at disrupting criminal networks and restoring security to affected communities.
The latest operation, the military said, underscores the determination of the troops to take the fight directly to terrorist hideouts while denying them safe havens from which to launch attacks.
The Joint Task Force assured residents that its personnel would continue offensive operations against terrorist elements until their operational capabilities are significantly degraded and conditions are created for the return of lasting peace and stability.
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