Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued kidnapped victims, neutralised suspected terrorists and recovered weapons during a series of military operations in Zamfara State, in what security authorities describe as a sustained push against criminal elements operating in the North-West.
According to information shared by the Nigeria Gov platform, troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, carried out fighting patrols across Zurmi and Shinkafi Local Government Areas on June 12, 2026, where they reportedly engaged terrorists at Yanbuki.
The military said one terrorist was neutralised during the firefight, while troops recovered a rifle, ammunition magazines, two motorcycles, mobile phones, MP3 players and other items believed to belong to the criminal group. Security forces also destroyed a terrorist camp located in Sabon Garin Daudawa after the suspects reportedly fled the area.
The statement further disclosed that troops, while conducting a routine patrol along the Shinkafi–Moriki axis, successfully ambushed another group of terrorists, killing one suspect and recovering an AK-47 rifle, ammunition magazines, a Baofeng communication radio, two motorcycles and assorted items.
The military also confirmed the rescue of three kidnapped victims during the operation. The victims are currently receiving care while efforts continue to reunite them with their families.
The latest operation comes amid intensified military campaigns against banditry, kidnapping and terrorist activities that have plagued several communities across Zamfara and neighbouring states. Security agencies have in recent months stepped up coordinated offensives aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts, disrupting logistics networks and restoring normalcy to affected areas.
The development is likely to boost public confidence in ongoing counterterrorism efforts, particularly in communities that have endured repeated attacks and abductions.
However, security analysts maintain that sustained military pressure, improved intelligence gathering and stronger collaboration with local communities will be necessary to prevent terrorist groups from regrouping and launching fresh attacks.
The operation underscores the continuing security challenges facing the region while highlighting the military’s determination to degrade the operational capacity of armed groups responsible for violence and kidnappings across the North-West.
