By Bavoriat Clara
Troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA (OPFY) have recorded significant successes in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry during a series of coordinated operations across Zamfara and Sokoto States. Between 8 and 10 September 2025, the troops intercepted ransom funds totaling over ₦23 million, recovered more than 160 rustled livestock, rescued kidnapped victims, and neutralized several terrorists in Shinkafi, Gusau, Bukkuyum, and Tureta Local Government Areas (LGAs).
In a statement, the Media Information Officer of Operation FASAN YAMMA, Captain David Adewusi, disclosed that the operation commenced with coordinated offensives along the Shinkafi–Katuru–Galadi–Tubali axis. Troops of 1 Brigade Forward Operating Base, Shinkafi, in conjunction with Mobile Strike Teams, cleared terrorists’ hideouts in the Galadi and Tubali forests, with several bandits fleeing with gunshot wounds.
During a stop-and-search operation at Katuru Bridge on the Shinkafi–Katuru–Isa Road, troops intercepted three suspects in possession of ₦8.7 million suspected to be ransom money. Later that same day, two additional suspects were apprehended in a black Toyota Corolla carrying ₦15 million. Preliminary investigations revealed that the funds were ransom payments for abducted locals held by terrorists operating along Nigeria’s border with the Niger Republic. The suspects and the recovered exhibits have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation.
In another operation, troops under Sector 2 OPFY launched ambushes in Anka (Zamfara) and Tureta (Sokoto) LGAs, targeting terrorists transporting rustled livestock from Talata Mafara and Tureta to their enclaves in Bagega and Furagirke forests. The terrorists were forced to abandon their captives and stolen animals after sustaining heavy fire. In Anka, troops rescued eight kidnapped victims and recovered 21 sheep, while in Tureta, they recovered 143 rustled sheep. The rescued victims have since been reunited with their families, and the recovered livestock handed over to the Chairmen of Bakura and Tureta LGAs.
Meanwhile, troops of 1 Brigade Forward Operating Base, Lilo, came under intense terrorist fire while on patrol along the Lilo–Kofi Road in Gusau LGA. In the ensuing battle, the soldiers neutralized six terrorists, while others fled with injuries. Regrettably, three gallant soldiers paid the supreme price, and two others who were critically wounded later succumbed to their injuries.
Operation FASAN YAMMA has reiterated its commitment to sustaining relentless pressure on terrorists and bandits until peace and normalcy are restored across the North West and parts of the North Central. The public is enjoined to continue supporting security forces with credible and timely information to aid ongoing operations.
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