Troops Break Terror Network in Katsina, Rescue Chained Captive During Fafu Forest Offensive
Troops of the Nigerian Army have recorded a major operational success in Katsina State, rescuing a kidnapped victim found in chains and dismantling several terrorist hideouts during an intensified offensive under Operation CLEAN SWEEP.
The operation, conducted by troops of the 17 Brigade Strike Group and Quick Response Force in collaboration with elements of the 8 Division Special Forces, forms part of sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist enclaves, disrupt criminal logistics networks and restore security across communities in Nigeria’s North-West region.
According to military authorities, on the fourth day of the operation, troops launched a coordinated clearance mission against terrorist strongholds in and around Tuga, located in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. The mission was supported by real-time Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets as well as precision air strikes executed by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
The offensive led to the successful clearance of several settlements previously occupied by terrorist elements.
In the course of the operation, troops recovered a significant number of rustled livestock believed to have been stolen by the criminals, including 36 cattle, 280 sheep and two donkeys. Military sources described the recovery as a major setback to the terrorists, whose activities are often financed through cattle rustling and other illicit ventures.
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Building on the gains, troops advanced deep into the notorious Fafu Forest under the Army’s “Relentless Incursion” strategy designed to deny terrorists freedom of movement and safe havens. Following coordinated aerial and artillery bombardments of identified targets, ground forces converged on the area and destroyed multiple camps and concealed hideouts hidden within the difficult terrain.
During the exploitation phase of the operation, troops discovered a hideout linked to a notorious terrorist commander where kidnapped victims were being held in deplorable conditions.
Two lifeless bodies were recovered at the site, while one victim, identified as Nura Yar’Adua, was found shackled in chains and successfully rescued by the troops. He was immediately administered first aid before being evacuated to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, for advanced medical treatment.
Military assessments conducted after the operation confirmed the destruction of several terrorist logistics structures and revealed evidence of enemy casualties within the targeted locations, indicating a significant degradation of the group’s operational capability.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and protecting citizens from terrorist threats. It also called on members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies, stressing that the fight against insecurity remains a collective responsibility.
The latest operation is seen as another significant milestone in ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting peace across Katsina State and the wider North-West region.