Abuja, June 13, 2026 – Ongoing military operations against banditry in Zamfara State have recorded another breakthrough, with troops rescuing three kidnapped persons, killing a suspected terrorist, and dismantling a criminal hideout in parts of the state.
According to an operational update released on Saturday, the successful mission was carried out on June 12 by troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, across communities in Zurmi and Shinkafi Local Government Areas.
The operation formed part of intensified efforts to curb banditry and other security threats in the North-West region.
During a fighting patrol covering Birnin Saba, Yanbuki and Sabon Garin Daudawa, troops encountered armed terrorists operating within the Yanbuki District of Zurmi Local Government Area.
A gun battle ensued, resulting in the death of one terrorist, while several others escaped with injuries into nearby locations.
Security forces recovered a cache of items from the scene, including rifles, four loaded magazines, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones, two MP3 players, a woodland camouflage trouser and an inner vest.
The troops subsequently pursued the fleeing criminals towards Sabon Garin Daudawa, forcing them to abandon their camp as military personnel advanced.
The abandoned camp was later cleared and destroyed to prevent its future use by criminal elements.
During the clearance exercise, troops also located and rescued three kidnap victims, who were safely evacuated from the area.
Military authorities stated that operations against terrorist and bandit groups would continue across Zamfara and other parts of the North-West, with the goal of restoring lasting security and normalcy to affected communities.