Troops Remove Terrorists, Seize Weapons in Sokoto

Troops from the COAS Special Intervention Battalion 7, Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have pushed back terrorists and seized weapons, ammunition, and motorcycles during an operation in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

This operation is part of ongoing efforts to clear out terrorist hideouts and bring back security to communities in the North-West.

A statement from the spokesman of Sector 2, 8 Div, Lt Col Olaniyi Osoba, was released on Sunday. It said the troops moved through known terrorist areas, including Manu, Alkasim, and Kandam villages, plus the Magarya Forest.

The statement noted that the troops encountered the terrorists in the Magarya Forest, which led to a gunfight.

“Upon making contact with the terrorists within the Magarya forest enclave, troops engaged the terrorist elements with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon their positions and flee into the deep forest,” the statement said.

After the clash, the troops carried out follow-up operations and searched the area thoroughly. They found a PKT machine gun, AK-47 rifles, and a large amount of 7.62 x 54mm belted ammunition.

The troops also found several motorcycles and various items believed to have been left behind by the escaping terrorists.

The military mentioned that retrieving these weapons and mobility assets would weaken the terrorists’ ability to operate in the area.

It also stated that the troops had kept a strong presence in the area to stop the terrorists from regrouping and to protect nearby communities.

“The troops continue to dominate the general area to ensure the total security of surrounding communities,” the statement added.