Troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have neutralised two suspected terrorists during a coordinated raid on a criminal hideout in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The operation, carried out in the early hours of Monday under Operation Clean Sweep III, targeted a known enclave in Ginchawa following actionable intelligence on terrorist activity in the area.
Military sources confirmed that soldiers from the 17 Brigade stormed the location and came under attempted resistance from the armed suspects, who were quickly overpowered by superior firepower.
The terrorists reportedly fled into nearby bushes after losing control of the engagement, while troops pursued them along withdrawal routes before contact was eventually lost.
During a follow-up sweep of the area, the troops recovered a significant cache of weapons and materials believed to have been used by the criminal group.
Items recovered include two PKT machine guns, a locally fabricated firearm, an AK-47 magazine, and 75 rounds of 7.62mm NATO-linked ammunition. Others include three motorcycles, two mobile phones, and camouflage uniforms.
Security personnel also discovered rustled livestock, including cows and goats, which are believed to have been stolen by the fleeing terrorists.
According to the operational report, two of the suspects were confirmed killed during the encounter, while others escaped with suspected gunshot wounds, as traces of blood were found around the enclave.
The military described the raid as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and disrupt their operations across the North-West region.
Security operations have intensified in recent months as forces continue targeted offensives aimed at denying armed groups freedom of movement and reducing attacks on rural communities.
