Troops operating under the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have recorded breakthroughs in counterterrorism efforts, neutralising two terrorists in Kebbi State and freeing 62 abducted persons in Zamfara State during coordinated missions across Sector 2.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama reported that the development was confirmed by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 8 Division/Sector 2, Lt.-Col. Olaniyi Osoba, in a statement released on Wednesday, the 21st of January, 2026.
Osoba explained that the Kebbi State encounter was triggered by credible intelligence tracking the movement of suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group along the border communities of Augie Local Government Area in Kebbi State and Binji Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
“Troops laid an ambush at Kerani village, where they engaged the terrorists, resulting in the elimination of two of them and the recovery of two motorcycles,” Osoba said.
He further disclosed that the neutralised terrorists were dressed in camouflage attire and moved on motorcycles reinforced with thick blankets. The motorcycles, he noted, were equipped with items designed to support long-distance movement, including hand-operated tyre pumps.
In a separate but related operation in Zamfara State, Osoba said troops carried out a raid on Munhaye Forest, identified as a stronghold of the notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Alti, following intelligence reports that kidnapped victims were being held there.
“The operation led to the successful rescue of 62 kidnapped victims who are now in safe custody,” he said.
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Osoba added that necessary arrangements are underway to reunite the rescued individuals with their families after completing preliminary screening and providing essential support.
He noted that the operations were executed in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilante groups, highlighting a coordinated approach to combating banditry and terrorism in the North-West.
“These successes reflect the relentless efforts of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and its partners to dismantle criminal networks, restore security and protect lives in the region,” he added.