OPFY Troops Foil Terror Attacks in Zamfara, Katsina, Kill Notorious Commander, Recover Arms

Troops of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA (JTF NW OPFY), have recorded a major operational success after thwarting multiple terrorist attacks in Zamfara and Katsina States, neutralising a notorious terrorist commander and recovering weapons and combat equipment from fleeing attackers.

The military operation, carried out on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, followed a series of intelligence-driven responses aimed at preventing planned attacks on vulnerable communities and disrupting terrorist networks operating across the North-West region.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North-West, the operations were conducted by troops of Sector 2 in collaboration with local security volunteers.

In Zamfara State, troops responded to credible intelligence indicating that terrorists were preparing to launch an attack on communities in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area.

The troops moved swiftly to intercept the attackers and engaged them in a fierce gun battle. The military said the terrorists were forced to withdraw after suffering casualties during the confrontation.

In a separate operation in the same area, troops responding to an attack on farmers around Dogon Kade successfully neutralised a notorious terrorist commander identified as Alhaji Tukur.

The military described Tukur as a key figure within the terrorist network and disclosed that he was the younger brother of terrorist kingpin Alhaji Shehu Bagiwaye.

Several other terrorists reportedly sustained gunshot injuries and escaped into surrounding areas during the encounter.

The operation, according to the military, dealt a significant blow to the operational capacity of the terrorist group in the area.

In another engagement at Sabon Gari, also in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, troops moved in after receiving reports of terrorist activities. The advancing troops forced the attackers to abandon their mission and flee into nearby bushes.

During a follow-up operation, troops neutralised one terrorist and recovered a motorcycle believed to have been used by the fleeing attackers.

Meanwhile, in Katsina State, troops of Sector 2 engaged terrorists during a fighting patrol along the Danmusa–Yantumaki axis in Danmusa Local Government Area.

The military said the troops overpowered the attackers, forcing them to abandon their positions and escape.

A subsequent search operation led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, two magazines containing 25 rounds of ammunition and one motorcycle.

In a major coordinated air-land operation, the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA also intercepted a large group of terrorists moving on motorcycles from the Sunke-Kumbo axis towards the Bayazaki riverine area of Gummi Local Government Area.

The military estimated the group at about 300 terrorists who were allegedly moving with the intention of attacking civilian communities.

Three air platforms were deployed following credible intelligence on the movement of the fighters.

The terrorists reportedly attempted to seek cover under trees after sighting the aircraft, but they were engaged through precision air strikes.

The military said the operation successfully disrupted the planned attack and further degraded the capabilities of the terrorist group.

Lieutenant Colonel Danja commended the Nigerian Air Force for what he described as a decisive intervention, noting that the air operation demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence sharing and joint military coordination.

The Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against terrorist and criminal elements across the region.

The military assured residents that it would continue efforts to deny terrorists freedom of action, protect communities, safeguard livelihoods and restore stability across the North-West.