By Ameh Gabriel
Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) have intensified their crackdown on banditry in Zamfara and Sokoto States, intercepting ransom payments worth over ₦23 million, neutralizing terrorists, recovering stolen livestock, and rescuing kidnapped victims.
The operations, carried out between September 8 and 10, 2025, spanned Shinkafi, Gusau, Bukkuyum, and Tureta Local Government Areas. According to military sources, the breakthroughs were achieved through coordinated offensives and stop-and-search operations across key flashpoints.
In Shinkafi axis, troops from 1 Brigade Forward Operating Base and the Mobile Strike Team stormed terrorists’ hideouts around Galadi and Tubali villages, forcing several fighters to flee with gunshot wounds. At Katuru Bridge along the Shinkafi–Isa Road, soldiers arrested three suspects with ₦8.7 million suspected ransom. Hours later, two more suspects were intercepted in a Toyota Corolla with another ₦15 million. Preliminary investigations confirmed the money was ransom for abducted locals held along the Nigeria–Niger Republic border. The suspects and exhibits have since been handed over to relevant authorities.
Troops under Sector 2 OPFY also intercepted terrorists moving rustled livestock through Anka and Tureta Local Government Areas. In Anka, eight kidnapped victims and 21 sheep were rescued, while in Tureta, 143 stolen sheep were recovered. The victims were safely reunited with their families, while the livestock was returned to community leaders in Bakura and Tureta.
In another encounter, troops on patrol along Lilo–Kofi Road in Gusau LGA came under heavy attack from terrorists. After a fierce exchange of fire, six terrorists were neutralized. Sadly, five soldiers paid the supreme price—three in combat and two later from injuries sustained during the clash.
The military emphasized its commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorist networks until banditry is completely eradicated in the North West and parts of the North Central. Security forces also urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations.
