Nigerian troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have foiled planned attacks by armed groups in the North-West, killing at least nine terrorists, including two key kingpins, in a series of coordinated operations across Katsina and Zamfara states.
The operations, carried out between May 1 and 3, 2026, also led to the recovery of weapons, motorcycles, and other items believed to have been used for criminal activities, according to military authorities.
This was contained in a statement by Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division,  Army / Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA  on Sunday.
In Katsina State, troops attached to the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Fudma engaged suspected terrorists during a fighting patrol along the Turare–Yantumaki Road in Dutsinma Local Government Area. A fierce gun battle ensued, resulting in the killing of four terrorists.
The army said the troops recovered two AK-47 rifles, magazines, ammunition, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones, and ₦153,000 in cash from the scene.
Meanwhile, in neighbouring Zamfara State, troops of FOB Bagega launched a high-impact operation in Anka Local Government Area, targeting known terrorist enclaves.
“The mission resulted in the killing of multiple fighters, including two notorious kingpins identified as Anaruwa and Gomina”, the statement said.
The military described Anaruwa as a high-value target and the younger brother of Kachalla Idi Aiki, a prominent terrorist commander linked to several attacks in the region.
According to the statement, the Zamfara operation unfolded in phases. On May 2, troops initially engaged four armed terrorists riding motorcycles along the Bagega–Anka Road, forcing them to retreat and abandon their bikes.
However, the fighters later regrouped and launched a counterattack on the Bagega base.
“Reinforced by additional combat teams and supported by precision airstrikes from the Air Component, troops successfully repelled the assault.
“During the clash, another group of eight terrorists on motorcycles was intercepted, leading to the killing of three more fighters.
“Subsequent exploitation of the area led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles with loaded magazines and seven motorcycles.
“In a follow-up operation on May 3, troops encountered and neutralized two additional terrorists on motorbikes in the same general area, consolidating their hold on the operational environment”, the statement read.
However, the military confirmed that one soldier was killed during the operation, underscoring the continued risks faced by security personnel in the fight against armed groups.
Authorities say troops have since strengthened their presence in Bagega and surrounding communities to prevent further incursions and maintain operational dominance.
Army reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property in the region, calling on residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies.

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