By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
Troops of Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have recorded fresh gains against terrorists and bandits in Zamfara State, with one terrorist neutralized and eight suspects arrested across multiple operations from June 5-6, 2026.
On June 5, troops of Sector 2 on a fighting patrol to Birnin Tsaba and Tsanu villages in Birnin Magaji LGA made contact with terrorists at Birnin Tsaba. After a firefight, troops neutralized one terrorist and recovered seven motorcycles used by the group.
On June 6, troops responded to an attack at Anguwar Sarkin Musulmi village in Kaura Namoda LGA. The terrorists fled into the bush on troops’ arrival. Preliminary findings showed they had stolen personal belongings from residents before troops intervened.
Also, on June 6, troops responded to reports of an ambush on commuters along the Kaura Namoda–Zurmi Road. Terrorists attacked two civilian vehicles between Jabanda and Dauran villages in Zurmi LGA. Troops secured the area, evacuated injured victims for treatment, and are tracking the attackers while efforts continue to rescue any abducted passengers.
On June 6, Sector 2 troops on patrol to Tudun Wada and Dan Gulbi communities in Maru LGA arrested eight suspected bandits at Tudun Wada. Items recovered include seven motorcycles, communication equipment, mobile phones, power banks, military-style uniforms, and other items. A structure used by the suspects was destroyed.
In a related operation on June 5, troops arrested the suspected recipient of recently intercepted ammunition at Tupa village in Shinkafi LGA following intelligence exploitation. The suspect is in custody and assisting investigations.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA said the incidents highlight growing desperation among terrorist elements whose logistics and sources of sustenance are under pressure from sustained military operations.
The Joint Task Force reiterated its commitment to offensive operations against terrorists and bandits, urging residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
