Soldiers kill terrorist, recover machine guns in Katsina

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have killed a key terrorist lieutenant and recovered machine guns, rifles, ammunition and motorcycles during clearance operations in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The operation was conducted on August 29, 2026, as troops of Sector 2 advanced into identified terrorist enclaves in the area.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the troops encountered stiff resistance from armed terrorists during the operation.

Danja said the troops responded with superior firepower, forcing the terrorists to flee the area. “During exploitation of the area, troops confirmed the neutralisation of a terrorist identified as Smally, a lieutenant of notorious terrorist leader Kachalla Muhammadu Filani,” he said.

He added that troops recovered three machine guns, two AK-47 rifles, 11 magazines and 180 rounds of ammunition from the terrorists. “Troops also recovered six motorcycles used by the terrorists for their nefarious activities,” Danja said.

The military spokesperson said the operation was part of the ongoing offensive by Operation FANSAN YAMMA to sustain pressure on terrorist networks and dismantle their operational capabilities across the Joint Operations Area.

He said the troops remained determined to deny terrorists freedom of action and create conditions for the restoration of lasting peace and security in affected communities.

“Troops remain resolute in taking the fight to the terrorists, denying them freedom of action and creating conditions for the restoration of lasting peace and security across affected communities,” Danja said.