Troops of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma, have dealt a significant blow to terrorist networks in Zamfara State, neutralising several insurgents and recovering over N5.3 million in cash during coordinated operations on Friday.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the JTF Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, disclosed that Sector 2 forces, supported by a Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, successfully located and cleared an Improvised Explosive Device planted near Jabanda village in Zurmi Local Government Area. The road was subsequently reopened to motorists after thorough scanning.
Engagements continued as troops encountered terrorists at Birnin Tsaba village in Birnin Magaji LGA, forcing them to retreat into surrounding bushland. A search yielded two motorcycles, a camouflage jungle hat and a handheld radio.
In a separate operation near Kwanar Jolof, Shinkafi LGA, troops alongside Mobile Police Squadron personnel repelled insurgents through superior firepower, recovering another motorcycle, two camouflage uniforms, a vest and a jungle hat.
Meanwhile, patrols around Maradun led to the interception of 35-year-old Lawali Dan Alo, a suspected terrorist collaborator and logistics supplier. A search of his bag uncovered N5,302,000 in cash and a mobile phone.
“Preliminary interrogation suggests the suspect was delivering funds on behalf of a terrorist leader to Kasimu Garba, who was arrested at his residence,” Danja confirmed. Both suspects remain in custody as investigations proceed.
The Theatre Command commended the troops for their vigilance and reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-led operations across the North-West, urging residents to remain alert and share timely, credible information with security agencies.