By Saminu Ibrahim
Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, 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, conducted on October 8, 2026, were part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks, prevent attacks and protect lives and property in the North-West region.
Specifically, in Kaduna State, troops of Sector 1 arrested a suspect, identified as Yusuf Adamu, at Kuyello in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area following credible human intelligence linking him to alleged 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 subsequently killed after the ransom was delivered and that he received ₦50,000 for his role in the operation.
The military said investigations were ongoing to apprehend the alleged principal suspect, Yusuf Iliya Sani, and other suspected collaborators.
In a separate operation in Zamfara State, troops of Sector 2, working alongside personnel of the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, located and destroyed three IEDs planted by terrorists along the Magami-Dansadau road.
The clearance operation is expected to improve safety for residents and motorists using the route, with local communities reportedly welcoming the development.
Also in Zamfara, troops of Sector 2 responded to intelligence reports about the movement of terrorists transporting rustled livestock between Kombo and Gurusu villages.
The troops swiftly mobilised to the area and engaged the suspected terrorists, forcing them to flee and abandon the animals.
The recovered livestock comprised 14 camels, 19 cows and 40 sheep.
The military said troops, working in conjunction with local vigilantes, subsequently moved the animals to a secure location for further action.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, said the operations demonstrated the commitment of troops and other security agencies to dismantling terrorist support networks, eliminating explosive threats and safeguarding lives and property.
He urged members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information about suspicious persons, movements and objects to the nearest security formation to support ongoing military operations.
