Troops Raid Kingpin’s Hideouts in Zamfara, Neutralized Several Terrorists

Nigerian Army troops deployed for Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency operations in Katsina and Zamfara States have raided terrorists’ hideouts, resulting in the elimination of several terrorists.

In a statement released on Monday, the Army reported that on March 29, 2024, troops conducted an operation in Zamfara, targeting the den of a notorious terrorist kingpin, Hassan Yantagwaye, in the Tsafe Local Government Area.

Yantagwaye and his group have been allegedly responsible for kidnappings and acts of terrorism in some parts of North West Nigeria.

During the operation, troops engaged the terrorists in a gun battle, neutralizing three of them and seizing a large cache of arms and ammunition. Additionally, the troops destroyed the terrorists’ camps.

The Army also disclosed that on the same day, troops intercepted 441 wraps of a substance suspected to be Cannabis Sativa at Molegede village in the Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State.

“The vigilant troops discovered the illicit substances being transported in a Mazda Saloon car, after the smugglers fled, abandoning the vehicle upon sighting the troops.

“The vehicle and illicit products will be handed over to the appropriate agency after preliminary investigations,” the statement read.

Furthermore, in Katsina State, troops engaged in a fierce gun battle with terrorists on March 30, 2024, in Shawu Kuka, Shinda, Tafki, Gidan Surajo, and Citakushi in Kabai I and Kabai II within the Faskari Local Government Area.

“The troops neutralized 8 terrorists and recovered 3 locally fabricated guns, military uniforms, and a large quantity of stolen grains.

“In Ebonyi State, troops conducting night patrols on April 31, 2024, encountered armed Effium militias along Urban Effium in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. Troops overpowered the militias in a combat engagement that followed and captured one of the militias. The troops also recovered one AK-47 Rifle and 11 rounds of 7.62mm Special Ammunition. The suspect is currently undergoing preliminary investigation.”

The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the populace and vowed to continue efforts to rid the nation of terrorists and insurgents.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, commended the bravery and dedication of the troops in these successful operations.