Troops take down terrorist and seize weapons in Katsina

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

The operation took place on August 29, 2026, as soldiers from Sector 2 moved into known terrorist hideouts in the area.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, said the troops faced strong resistance from armed terrorists.

Danja explained that the troops used greater firepower, which forced the terrorists to run away. “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 also mentioned 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 noted.

The military spokesperson said this operation is part of the ongoing efforts by Operation FANSAN YAMMA to keep pressure on terrorist groups and break down their operations across the Joint Operations Area.

He added that the troops are committed to stopping terrorists from acting freely and working towards restoring peace and security in the 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 stated.