By Joy Yesufu
Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have arrested a suspected terrorist collaborator in Kaduna State, destroyed three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Zamfara State and recovered 73 livestock allegedly abandoned by fleeing terrorists.
The operations, which took place on October 8, 2026, formed part of ongoing military efforts to disrupt terrorist networks, prevent attacks and improve security across the North-West.
In Kaduna State, troops of Sector 1, acting on credible human intelligence, arrested a suspect, Yusuf Adamu, at Kuyello in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area over alleged links to terrorist activities.
During preliminary interrogation, Adamu reportedly admitted to participating in terrorist operations, including recording a video of a female kidnap victim who was allegedly sexually assaulted by terrorists to facilitate a ransom demand.
The suspect further alleged that the victim was killed after the ransom was paid and that he received N50,000 for his role in the operation.
According to the operational account, investigations are ongoing to apprehend the alleged principal suspect, Yusuf Iliya Sani, and other individuals suspected of collaborating with the terrorist network.
In a separate operation in Zamfara State, troops of Sector 2, working alongside personnel of the Nigeria Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, discovered and destroyed three IEDs planted by suspected terrorists along the Magami-Dansadau Road.
The operation was conducted on the same day as part of efforts to detect and neutralise explosive threats to motorists and other road users.
The clearance operation is expected to improve safety along the route, although further details about the circumstances surrounding the planting of the explosives were not immediately available.
In another operation in Zamfara State, troops of Sector 2 responded to intelligence reports about suspected terrorists moving rustled livestock between Kombo and Gurusu villages.
The troops deployed to the area and engaged the suspected terrorists, whose movement was reportedly disrupted by the military’s firepower, forcing them to flee and abandon the animals.
The recovered livestock comprised 14 camels, 19 cows and 40 sheep, bringing the total to 73 animals.
The troops, working with local vigilantes, subsequently moved the livestock to a secure location for further action.
The operations underscore ongoing security efforts in the North-West, where military formations continue to target suspected terrorist collaborators, counter explosive threats and recover livestock linked to alleged rustling activities.
