Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have repelled separate attacks by suspected bandits and recovered firearms and other equipment during operations in Katsina and Zamfara states.

The operation’s spokesperson, Aliyu Danja, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, saying the operations were conducted on July 2 to protect lives, safeguard communities and sustain pressure on armed groups operating in the North-west.

Mr Danja said troops of Sector 2, while on a fighting patrol, engaged suspected bandits between Amara and Chakau Junction in the Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina after the fleeing assailants opened fire on sighting the advancing troops.

“The troops responded with overwhelming firepower, forcing the terrorists to abandon their mission and flee,” he said.

He said the troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, one magazine loaded with eight rounds of ammunition and two motorcycles used by the attackers.

In a separate operation on the outskirts of Sabon Garin and Dantakeri villages in Dutsinma Local Government Area, troops, working with other security agencies and local vigilantes, responded to an attack and neutralised one suspected bandit during the ensuing gunfight.

Mr Danja added that troops of Sector 2, alongside other security agencies, also responded to reports of an attack on Farin Hawa village in Malumfashi Local Government Area, where armed bandits on motorcycles abducted the district head, Mubarak Sharin.

“The pursuing troops made contact with the fleeing terrorists, neutralising one of the assailants, disrupting their withdrawal and rescuing the kidnapped district head,” he said.
In Zamfara State, Mr Danja said troops of Sector 2 repelled an attack on their location in Dauran, Bukkuyum Local Government Area.

“During the fierce engagement, troops, reinforced by a fighting patrol, forced the terrorists to retreat, recovering one AK-47 rifle, four magazines, 35 rounds of ammunition, a bandolier, and a hydration pack (CamelBak),” he said.

Mr Danja commended the courage, professionalism and resilience displayed by the troops and collaborating security agencies during the operations.