Odita Sunday 
Troops Foil Terror Plot in Zamfara, Katsina, Kill 9 Including Two Kingpins
By Odita Sunday
Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA have thwarted what security sources described as a coordinated terrorist plot to unleash attacks in parts of Zamfara and Katsina States, neutralising nine insurgents, including two notorious kingpins, in a series of operations conducted between May 1 and 3, 2026.
The operations, which spanned multiple locations across both states, also led to the recovery of four AK-47 rifles, several motorcycles, mobile phones and cash believed to be linked to the activities of the terrorist group.
In a statement signed by Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division/ Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the military said the coordinated operations were part of ongoing efforts to degrade terrorist networks operating in the North-West.
According to the statement, troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) FUDMA, while on a fighting patrol, engaged terrorists along the Turare–Yantumaki Road in Dutsinma Local Government Area of Katsina State.
“In the ensuing firefight, four terrorists were neutralised, while troops recovered two AK-47 rifles with magazines, ammunition, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones and the sum of ₦153,000,” the statement said.
The Army further disclosed that in a separate but related operation in Zamfara State, troops of FOB Bagega carried out a high-risk engagement in Anka Local Government Area between May 2 and 3.
The operation led to the neutralisation of seven terrorists, including two identified kingpins, Anaruwa and Gomina.
Military sources identified Anaruwa as the younger brother of Kachalla Idi Aiki, a notorious terrorist commander operating in the region.
The statement revealed that during the initial encounter on May 2, troops engaged armed terrorists along the Bagega–Anka Road, forcing them to abandon their motorcycles and retreat.
However, the terrorists later regrouped and launched a counterattack on the Bagega Forward Operating Base.
“Following reinforcement by combat teams and close air support from the Air Component, troops successfully repelled the attack,” Osoba stated.
He added that during the engagement, a second wave of eight terrorists mounted on four motorcycles was intercepted, leading to the neutralisation of three insurgents, while additional weapons and motorcycles were recovered.
Subsequent exploitation operations conducted on May 3 led to the elimination of two more terrorists encountered on motorcycles within the same area.
Despite the success recorded, the Army disclosed that one soldier was killed in action during the operation.
Troops have since consolidated their positions in Bagega and surrounding areas, maintaining operational dominance to prevent further incursions.
The military reiterated its commitment to ongoing counterterrorism operations under Operation FANSAN YAMMA and called on residents to support security efforts by providing credible information.
The sustained operations reflect increased pressure on terrorist groups in the North-West, particularly in forested and rural areas where they have previously operated with relative ease.
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