Troops from Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, have ramped up efforts against criminal and terrorist hideouts in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi states, eliminating at least six suspected bandits and seizing weapons and communication devices during coordinated strikes carried out this week.
In distinct missions, security forces accomplished notable rescues.
Forces involved in Operation Whirl Stroke, alongside the Benue Civil Protection Guard, successfully rescued a 28-year-old kidnapping victim, Mrs. Member Ityavber, in Tse-Ubena village, Katsina-Ala LGA of Benue State, and apprehended two alleged armed herders.
In Zamfara State, police rescued a housewife and her six children, who had been kidnapped by suspected bandits in Damba town, Gusau LGA, after encountering the gunmen and driving them away.
The progression is taking place as the military, collaborating with other security forces, synchronizes efforts to maintain safety in the nation.
The Nigerian Army stated that the intensified campaign aims to safeguard at-risk communities and disrupt criminal organizations active in the North-West.
In Sokoto State, soldiers from the COAS Intervention Battalion VII confronted terrorists in two distinct incidents at Magonho Forest on March 25, eliminating three bandits. The operation also resulted in the seizure of three AK-47 rifles along with motorcycles.
On the same day, Zamfara achieved several successes, as troops successfully ambushed two terrorists along the Gada Maya–Makakari road, eliminating them and prompting others to escape.
Items recovered consisted of an AK-47 rifle, three magazines, 55 rounds of 7.62mm ammo, a Baofeng radio, two cell phones, and a motorcycle.
Subsequently, soldiers thwarted a counterattack in Kaida Village, where attackers had claimed residents were working with security personnel.
During an intelligence-driven clearance operation in Dutsi Village, Moriki District of Zurmi Local Government Area, troops compelled escaping terrorists to relinquish their weapons and ammunition due to continuous pressure.
In Kebbi State, troops acting on intelligence regarding the Lakurawa Terrorist Group’s presence in the Giron Masa community, Shanga Local Government Area, encountered an ambush approximately 500 meters from the village.
In spite of the unexpected assault, the forces maintained their position while reinforcements and combat assistance were quickly sent to the location.
Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, acting deputy director of army public relations for 8 Division, stated in a release to reporters on Thursday that the operations showcase the military’s determination to control the battlespace and diminish terrorist abilities.
“Our troops have remained resolute and undeterred in the face of provocation. The ongoing operations are a clear indication of our commitment to neutralizing terrorist elements and restoring lasting peace across the Northwest,” Osoba said.
He also stated that intelligence-driven operations were ongoing to track down fleeing fighters, particularly those involved in the Kebbi ambush.
“The morale of our troops remains high, and their actions continue to reflect courage, professionalism, and dedication to duty. We will not relent until these criminal elements are decisively dealt with,” he said.
Forces involved in Operation Whirl Stroke, in a declaration released by Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, the acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, and provided to reporters on Thursday, noted that the rescue mission was executed alongside the state’s security unit, the Benue Civil Protection Guard.
The statement read, “Troops responded to reports of kidnapping activities at Tse-Ubena Village in Yooyo Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.
“Troops deployed from Tor-Donga, in conjunction with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard
“During the operation, one kidnapped victim, Mrs. Member Ityavber, aged 28, was successfully rescued.”
Lt. Zubairu noted that the troops, acting on credible intelligence, conducted a thorough search and discovered an abandoned suspected criminal hideout.
“Troops continued clearance operations with further exploitation across River Akpako, leading to the arrest of two suspects who are currently in custody, undergoing further investigation,” the statement added.
Maj Gen Moses Gara, the Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, praised the troops for their swift response and professionalism.
In Zamfara State, police also saved seven relatives who were kidnapped by gunmen believed to be bandits in Damba town, Gusau LGA, on Wednesday.
In a statement, the representative of the state police command, DSP Yazid Abubakar, revealed that the rescued individuals, a homemaker and her six kids, were kidnapped while the bandits attempted to transport them to the woods.
He said, “On 25th March 2026 at about 2250hrs, a group of armed men suspected to be bandits stormed the residence of one Muhammad Lawal ‘m,’ located at Nasarawa in Damba District, Gusau LGA, and abducted his wife along with six of his children.
“Upon receipt of the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) promptly mobilized a patrol team to the scene.
“The team engaged the bandits in a fierce confrontation, forcing them to abandon the victims and flee.”
DSP Abubakar emphasized that all the victims were successfully rescued unhurt and safely reunited with their families.
He stressed that the command would remain committed to safeguarding the lives and property of the people of the state.
