Troops Repel Multiple Terrorist Attacks In Katsina, Zamfara, Rescue Abducted District Head

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have repelled multiple terrorist attacks across Katsina and Zamfara states, rescued an abducted district head and recovered weapons during separate military operations carried out across the North-West.

The military said the operations, conducted on July 2, 2026, reflect the task force's continued efforts to disrupt terrorist activities, protect communities and sustain pressure on armed groups operating in the region.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, said troops of Sector 2 encountered suspected terrorists while on a fighting patrol between Amara and Chakau Junction in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State.

According to him, the suspected terrorists opened fire after sighting the advancing troops, triggering a gun battle. The troops responded with what the military described as overwhelming firepower, forcing the attackers to abandon their mission and flee. Following the operation, soldiers recovered an AK-47 rifle, a magazine loaded with eight rounds of ammunition and two motorcycles believed to have been used by the fleeing terrorists.

Danja said troops also responded to another attack on the outskirts of Sabon Garin and Dantakeri villages in Dutsinma Local Government Area, where they worked alongside other security agencies and local vigilante groups to engage the attackers. The military said one suspected terrorist was killed during the operation.

In Malumfashi Local Government Area, troops launched another operation after receiving reports that armed men riding motorcycles had invaded Farin Hawa Village and abducted the district head, Mubarak Sharin.

The military said troops pursued the kidnappers, engaged them in a firefight and killed one of the suspected attackers. According to the statement, the operation disrupted the kidnappers' escape and resulted in the safe rescue of the district head.

In neighbouring Zamfara State, troops of Sector 2 also repelled an attack on their position at Dauran in Bukkuyum Local Government Area.

The statement said reinforcement troops joined the battle and forced the attackers to retreat after a fierce exchange of gunfire. Following the operation, troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, four magazines, 35 rounds of ammunition, a bandolier and a hydration pack.

Operation FANSAN YAMMA commended the courage, professionalism and resilience displayed by its personnel, as well as the support provided by other security agencies and local vigilante groups during the operations.

The Joint Task Force reiterated its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against terrorist groups while working closely with local communities to strengthen security and protect the lives and property of residents across the North-West.