The Nigerian Army has confirmed that troops under Operation Fansan Yamma killed nine terrorists, including two key figures, during coordinated operations carried out between May 1 and May 3, 2026, in Katsina State and Zamfara State.
According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, troops from the Forward Operating Base in Fudma engaged terrorists along the Turare–Yantumaki Road in Dutsinma LGA of Katsina State.
During the firefight, four terrorists were neutralised, while troops recovered:
• Two AK-47 rifles
• Magazines and ammunition
• Two motorcycles
• Seven mobile phones
• ₦153,000 cash
In a separate operation in Zamfara State, troops at the Forward Operating Base in Bagega carried out a major offensive in Anka LGA, killing several terrorists, including two notorious kingpins identified as Anaruwa and Gomina.
The Army disclosed that:
• Anaruwa was the younger brother of a known terrorist commander, Kachalla Idi Aiki
• Initial clashes forced some terrorists to retreat before regrouping for a counterattack
• Reinforcements and air support helped repel the assault
Subsequent engagements led to additional recoveries, including:
• Two AK-47 rifles with loaded magazines
• Seven motorcycles
Troops also neutralised two more terrorists during follow-up operations on May 3.
However, the Army confirmed that one soldier lost his life in the line of duty during the operation.
The military said it has since strengthened its presence in the Bagega axis to maintain control and prevent further attacks, reaffirming its commitment to protecting citizens and urging the public to report suspicious activities.
