Troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, have neutralised two high-profile terrorist kingpins during an intelligence-led operation in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
According to a post by security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagagola Magama, the operation was conducted in the early hours of Monday, following credible intelligence on the hideout of key members of a terrorist syndicate operating in the area.
It was gathered that the troops reportedly engaged the terrorists with superior firepower after making contact with the enclave, resulting in the neutralisation of two prominent figures within the group.
Those killed were identified as Hamisu, alias Mamiyo, a prominent gunrunner and second-in-command to notorious terrorist commander Kachalla Muhammadu Filani, and Umar Bocho, a high-ranking lieutenant within the same syndicate.
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Sources said the group’s leader, Kachalla Muhammadu Filani, narrowly escaped the encounter with severe gunshot wounds.
The troops also captured and destroyed two motorcycles belonging to the terrorists during the operation.
Following the encounter, security agencies have intensified efforts to track down the wounded terrorist leader and other fleeing members of the group.
The Nigerian Army has urged residents and medical personnel in and around Matazu to remain vigilant and promptly report anyone seeking treatment for suspicious gunshot wounds to the nearest security agency.
The operation remains ongoing as troops continue clearance and mop-up activities to eliminate remaining threats in the area.