Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY) on Tuesday successfully intercepted and neutralised dozens of terrorists near Inana village in the Rijau Local Government Area of Niger.

A statement by the OPFY spokesperson, David Adewusi, on Wednesday, said the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce firefight.

Mr Adewusi said the terrorists were advancing from the Baban Doka axis of the Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara in a large group towards Ragada and Warari communities in Niger.

He said the troops, comprising joint teams from the Mariga and Zuru axes, swiftly launched a coordinated assault.

According to him, the engagement of the air component of OPFY provided vital intelligence, surveillance, and air strikes in support of the ground troops, enabling a decisive response.

“Several terrorists were neutralised, and numerous motorcycles and communication equipment were recovered.

“The troops also recovered two AK-47 rifles, one magazine loaded with five rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and 18 motorcycles, among other items.

“The successful joint assault thwarted the terrorists’ plans to destabilise the area and rustle livestock. Sadly, one brave soldier was fatally injured during the firefight,” he said.

The statement reiterated the commitment of  OPFY to remain resolute in its mandate to defeat terrorists and criminal elements operating across the North-West and parts of the North Central region.

“We assure the public of our unwavering commitment to achieving this mandate and urge continued cooperation through the provision of credible information that will support ongoing offensive operations,” he said. 

(NAN)