The troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma OPFY have recorded another success against terrorists in Zamfara State, with the neutralization of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and other military items, and arrest of suspected terrorist logistics suppliers.

The operations, carried out on Friday, August 7, 2026, across Zurmi, Birnin Magaji, Shinkafi and Maradun Local Government Areas, also disrupted terrorist movements and logistics networks in the state, the JTF said in a statement on Saturday.

According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, said that troops of Sector 2, in conjunction with a Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, acted to an intelligence report on a suspected IED planted near Jabanda village in Zurmi LGA.

The statement added that the team located and safely detonated the device, swept the road and reopened it to motorists.

“Returning from the operation, the troops encountered terrorists at Birnin Tsaba village in Birnin Magaji LGA. The terrorists fled into the bush following an exchange of fire. Exploitation of the area led to the recovery of two motorcycles, a camouflage jungle hat, a handheld radio and other items,” he stated.

In a separate operation in Shinkafi Local Government Area, troops working with the Mobile Police Squadron acted on credible intelligence on terrorist activities around Kwanar Jolof.

The statement said the troops engaged the terrorists with superior firepower, forcing them to withdraw in disarray. A subsequent search yielded one motorcycle, two camouflage uniforms, a camouflage vest and a jungle hat.

The most significant arrest was made in Maradun Local Government Area, where troops on patrol intercepted a 35-year-old suspected terrorist collaborator and logistics vendor, Lawali Dan Alo.

Danja noted that a search of the suspect’s bag, which he claimed contained food items, led to the recovery of over ₦5.302 million in cash and a mobile phone.

“Preliminary interrogation revealed that the suspect was allegedly conveying the funds on behalf of a terrorist leader to another individual, Kasimu Garba, who was subsequently arrested at his residence. Both suspects are in custody and undergoing further investigation,” he added.

The Theatre Command commended the troops for their vigilance and prompt response, noting that aggressive patrols and intelligence-led operations would be sustained across the North West region.

He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to security agencies to help restore lasting peace in the region. (The Guardian)

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