Troops of the Joint Task Force North West under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have intensified operations against terrorists and bandits in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State, destroying several hideouts and logistics bases during an ongoing security crackdown.
The military said the offensive, codenamed Operation CLEAN SWEEP III, began on June 14, 2026, following the abduction and subsequent death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was kidnapped alongside his wife by suspected terrorists in the area.
According to the military, the operation is designed to apprehend those responsible for the attack, dismantle criminal networks, and restore peace to affected communities across the state.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, said troops have been conducting intensive fighting patrols, intelligence-driven raids, cordon-and-search exercises, and clearance operations in identified terrorist strongholds within the Joint Operations Area.
He disclosed that troops recorded major successes around the Dikkawa Hills and nearby communities, where several terrorist camps and hideouts were uncovered and destroyed.
Danja said clearance operations were also carried out in Adua, Nasarawa and Karaduwa communities, leading to the destruction of structures used by terrorists for logistics and support activities.
“During the operations, terrorists’ life-support structures and logistics bases were discovered and destroyed, further degrading the criminals’ ability to operate within the area,” he stated.
The military spokesman noted that the operation is being conducted in collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders to enhance ongoing efforts to improve security across Katsina State.
He reaffirmed the commitment of security forces to protecting residents and denying criminal elements freedom of movement within the region.
“The Theatre Command wishes to reassure the people of Matazu Local Government Area and neighbouring communities that troops remain committed to safeguarding law-abiding citizens and preventing terrorists and bandits from operating freely,” Danja said.
He urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely intelligence, assuring that all information received would be handled confidentially.
According to him, troops will sustain the offensive until the objectives of the operation are fully achieved, while updates will be provided as developments unfold.
Meanwhile, the Katsina State Government on Saturday confirmed the death of retired Major General Abubakar. The government said the former military officer died in captivity from complications related to diabetes and hypertension.
Advertisement