During clearance operations in Katsina State’s Matazu Local Government Area, troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, killed a major terrorist lieutenant and recovered machine guns, weapons, ammo, and motorcycles.
On August 29, 2026, Sector 2 forces moved into known terrorist strongholds in the region as part of the operation.
The troops faced fierce opposition from armed militants during the operation, according to a statement released on Sunday by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the Joint Task Force’s media information officer.
According to Danja, the terrorists were forced to leave the area when the army retaliated with superior weaponry. “Troops confirmed the neutralization of a terrorist identified as Smally, a lieutenant of notorious terrorist leader Kachalla Muhammadu Filani, during exploitation of the area,” he stated.
Three machine guns, two AK-47 rifles, eleven magazines, and 180 rounds of ammunition were retrieved from the terrorists by the military, he continued. Danja added, “Troops also recovered six motorcycles used by the terrorists for their nefarious activities.”
According to the military spokeswoman, the action was a part of action FANSAN YAMMA’s ongoing offensive to maintain pressure on terrorist networks and destroy their operating capabilities throughout the Joint Operations Area.
According to him, the forces are still committed to preventing terrorists from operating freely and establishing the framework for the long-term restoration of security and stability in the impacted areas.
According to Danja, “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.”
