Troops of Operation Fansan Yanma Phase V have eliminated six terrorists during an operation into terrorists’ strongholds across parts of Sokoto and Zamfara States.
The multi-day operation, which began with swift assaults on identified camps, saw troops advancing through highly hostile territory, including Gidan Madi, Tsamiya Village, Tudun Ruwa, Alela, and several forested areas notorious for harbouring terrorist cells.
According to Zagazola Makama, the troops encountered multiple ambushes laid by fighters of the Lakurawa terror faction, a splinter group known for its entrenched operations in the North West region.
Despite the resistance, the troops pressed forward, clearing key hideouts beyond Alela village, including the Areo general area, Damoria, Tumuna Village, and the densely wooded Goboro Forest.
“These locations have been long used by terrorists as logistics hubs and operational bases for launching attacks on civilian communities and security convoys,” a senior military source familiar with the operation said.
However, the military offensive did not come without cost. One soldier was wounded in action (WIA) during the series of engagements, while a vigilante supporting the operation paid the ultimate price.
The wounded soldier was promptly evacuated to the 8 Division Military Hospital (8 DMSH) in Sokoto for treatment.
Troops also neutralised six terrorists affiliated with the Lakeurawa faction during the operation, while several others escaped with varying degrees of gunshot wounds, fleeing into the surrounding forest areas.
Among the arms recovered from the cleared camps were various weapons, magazines, two handheld radios and motorcycles.