Operation FANSAN YAMMA has disrupted coordinated terrorist attacks across Zamfara and Katsina states, neutralising a notorious field commander, recovering weapons and frustrating a large-scale assault through coordinated ground and air operations.
The operational gains were disclosed in a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, detailing separate operations conducted on 7 July 2026.
According to the Army, “troops of Sector 2, supported by local security volunteers, responded to credible intelligence on an impending terrorist attack in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State, engaging the attackers in a fierce firefight that forced them to withdraw with casualties.”
In a related operation around Dogon Kade, Voice of Nigeria reports that troops responding to an attack on farmers, neutralised notorious terrorist commander Alhaji Tukur, identified as the younger brother of terrorist kingpin Alhaji Shehu Bagiwaye. Several other terrorists reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds.
They also responded to reports of terrorist activity at Sabon Gari in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, where the approaching force compelled the criminals to abandon their mission and flee. A follow-up exploitation led to the neutralisation of one terrorist and the recovery of a motorcycle.
In neighbouring Katsina State, troops on fighting patrol along the Danmusa-Yantumaki axis overwhelmed another terrorist group, forcing its members to abandon their position. Exploitation of the area resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, two magazines containing 25 rounds of ammunition and a motorcycle.
The operation highlighted continued air-land integration within the theatre. Acting on credible intelligence, the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA intercepted an estimated 300 terrorists moving on motorcycles from the Sunke-Kumbo axis towards the Bayazaki riverine area en route to Gummi.
Three air platforms were deployed along the terrorists’ route. As the group attempted to disperse and seek cover, precision airstrikes engaged the targets, disrupting what military authorities described as a planned attack on civilian communities.
The Joint Task Force commended the Nigerian Air Force for the successful interdiction, describing it as a significant contribution to degrading terrorist capabilities and preventing further violence.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations across the North-West, maintaining pressure on terrorist and criminal networks while protecting communities and restoring lasting peace across the region.
