Troops kill six terrorists, rescue underage victim in Zamfara

Troops kill six terrorists, rescue underage victim in Zamfara

Troops of the 8 Division Garrison Strike Force, operating under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have neutralised six terrorists and rescued a kidnapped underage girl during coordinated raids on insurgent camps in the Sububu Forest area of Maradun Local Government Area, Zamfara State.

A statement issued on Sunday by the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Captain David Adewusi, said the operation was part of renewed efforts to degrade terrorist networks terrorising rural communities in the North-West.

“The offensive was aimed at dismantling terrorist enclaves and restoring peace to Zamfara State. Our troops displayed exceptional bravery and tactical efficiency in neutralising the threats encountered”, the statement partly read.

According to him, troops first stormed Indulumu village, where two terrorists were killed, and an AK-47 rifle was recovered.

The Strike Force later advanced to Ruduno village, killing four additional terrorists and recovering another AK-47 rifle, a magazine loaded with 28 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and destroying two motorcycles used for logistics and mobility.

Adewusi said the troops further pushed into the forest and rescued a kidnapped underage victim identified as Halira Ibrahim.

“The rescue underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens and combating kidnapping in the region”, the statement added.

He added that several terrorist camps and life-support structures in Magaji, Galakaje, Filinga and Kukatara were also destroyed, denying the terrorists safe havens and logistics support.

Security analysts note that the Sububu Forest has for years served as a major sanctuary for armed groups involved in kidnappings-for-ransom, cattle rustling and rural raids across Zamfara and neighbouring states.

Recent military offensives are aimed at breaking the cycle of attacks that have displaced thousands of residents and disrupted farming, mining and trade corridors.

The latest operation comes amid sustained military pressure across the North-West, where federal and state authorities have reiterated their commitment to dismantling criminal networks and improving security for rural populations affected by prolonged banditry.