Troops of the Nigerian Army, in separate operations conducted in Zamfara and Katsina States, have killed over 11 terrorists following raids on their enclaves.
In Zamfara, the hideout of a terrorist leader, Hassan Yantagwaye, in Tsafe Local Government Area (LGA) was raided which resulted in a gun battle with two of his men killed in the operation.
According to a statement on Monday by Army Spokesperson, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu,: “Nigerian Army troops deployed for Counter Terrorism Counter Insurgency operations in Katsina and Zamfara States in a series of coordinated operations have raided terrorists’ enclaves resulting in the elimination o a significant number of terrorists.
“In an operation in Zamfara State, on 29 March 2024 troops successfully raided the den of a notorious terrorists’ kingpin, Hassan Yantagwaye, in Tsafe Local Government Area. Yantagwaye and his group have been responsible for kidnappings and acts of terrorism in some parts of North West Nigeria. During the operation, troops overpowered the terrorists in an ensuing gun battle, neutralizing 3 of them and recovering a large cache of arms and ammunition. Troops also destroyed the terrorists’ camps.
“Troops on 29 March 2024 intercepted 441 wraps of substance suspected to be Cannabis Sativa at Molegede village in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun state. The vigilant troops uncovered the illicit substances being conveyed in a Mazda Saloon car, after the smugglers absconded, abandoning the vehicle on sighting the troops. The vehicle and illicit products will be handed over to the appropriate agency after preliminary investigations.
“In Katsina State, the gallant troops on 30 March 2024 engaged in a fierce gun battle with terrorists in Shawu Kuka, Shinda, Tafki, Gidan Surajo, and Citakushi in Kabai I and Kabai II within 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 31 April 2024, encountered armed Effium militias along Urban Effium in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Eboyin 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 remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of the populace and will leave no stone unturned to rid the nation of terrorists and insurgents.
“The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja commends the bravery and dedication of the valiant troops in these successful operations.
“The Nigerian Army assures the public of its unwavering commitment in executing its constitutional responsibilities.”
