Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have neutralised several terrorists and intercepted a suspected explosives courier carrying 180 units of explosives allegedly meant for terrorist elements in Katsina State.
The Army in a post via its X handle on Saturday, said theoperations, carried out on August 14, also led to the recovery of rifles, ammunition and motorcycles as troops stepped up offensive operations across parts of Zamfara State.
In Birnin Magaji Local Government Area, troops of Sector 2 encountered terrorists around Garin Kaso while conducting a clearance operation.
A fierce gun battle followed, with two terrorists confirmed neutralised. Soldiers recovered two rifles, two magazines, nine rounds of ammunition and two motorcycles from the scene.
The terrorists later attempted to ambush the troops from concealed positions, but the soldiers fought back and forced them to withdraw.
The number of casualties suffered by the terrorists in the second encounter was not immediately known. However, reports from communities in the area indicated that some of the fleeing fighters were seen evacuating wounded colleagues and taking away the bodies of those neutralised.
In a separate operation the same day, troops intercepted a suspected courier during a routine snap check on vehicles.
The suspect, identified as 57-year-old Sani Umar, was stopped and searched, leading to the discovery of 180 units of 20mm Super Power explosives in his vehicle.
According to the military, the explosives were allegedly being moved from Gusau Local Government Area of Zamfara State to suspected terrorist elements operating in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Umar, the vehicle and the recovered explosives have been taken into custody as investigations continue.
The interception is significant as it cuts off materials allegedly being moved to support terrorist activities in the region.
While troops continue to confront terrorists in the field, the seizure also shows the importance of disrupting the supply routes and networks that keep their operations going.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA said it would sustain the offensive against terrorists and other criminal elements and continue efforts to restrict their freedom of movement across the North West.
By VICTOR CHIAHEMEN, Abuja
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