Six security personnel killed as troops repel terrorist ambush in Zamfara

Six members of Nigeria’s security forces—five soldiers and a police officer- have been confirmed killed when troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA came under a deadly terrorist ambush in Zamfara State.

The attack occurred on Monday, along the Bingi–Kekun Waje–Gusau Road as troops of the Joint Task Force North West were returning from a series of coordinated offensive operations that had yielded significant gains against terrorist groups operating in the state.

In a statement issued on X by David Adewusi, a captain, Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, said the ambush happened while soldiers were responding to a distress call over a reprisal attack by terrorists.

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According to the statement, the troops had, between January 17 and 19, carried out successful raids, ambushes, and fighting patrols in Birnin Magaji and Anka local government areas, leading to the arrest of three suspected terrorists and the killing of four others.

The suspects arrested were identified as Isiya Kwakwatawa, Ibrahim Dan Musulu, and Makau Lamba Goma. Weapons and equipment recovered during the operations included a PKT machine gun, five AK-47 rifles, three magazines, ammunition, Baofeng radios, and three motorcycles.

However, while moving toward Kekun Waje, troops of OPFY Combat Team 1 were ambushed by terrorists at Gidan Wagni.

“Despite the surprise nature of the attack, the troops responded gallantly, engaging the terrorists and preventing further harm to nearby communities,” Adewusi said, confirming the loss of six security personnel during the encounter.

Reinforcements from the Operation FANSAN YAMMA Mobile Strike Team and the 1 Brigade Quick Reaction Force, deployed from forward operating bases in Kanoma and Kekun Waje, quickly moved to the scene. The counter-ambush, led by the Commander of 1 Brigade, forced the attackers to retreat.

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Military intelligence later revealed that two notorious bandit leaders—Janwuya and Alhaji Bello, a deputy to Kachalla Soja—sustained serious gunshot wounds during the clash, while several other terrorists were also injured as they fled.

Troops, working alongside local vigilante groups, have since launched pursuit operations, with further offensives ongoing across the affected areas.

The military assured residents that the situation remains under control and reiterated its commitment to restoring peace in Zamfara and the wider North West region.

The Theatre Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA has condoled with Sector 2 over the loss of personnel and praised the troops for their bravery and professionalism. The military also appealed to the public to remain calm and continue to provide credible intelligence to support ongoing security efforts.