Army targets terrorist networks in Katsina, Zamfara

The Nigerian military has ramped up efforts to combat terrorist and armed criminal groups in Katsina and Zamfara states as part of Operation CLEAN SWEEP IV, under the broader Operation FANSAN YAMMA initiative. This coordinated offensive aims to dismantle terrorist networks, weaken their capabilities and prevent the spread of terrorist activities in the North West region.

Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force North West, revealed that the operation involves both ground and aerial assaults on identified threats. In Katsina State, troops conducted a clearance operation in Dutsinma Local Government Area, compelling terrorists to abandon their positions and retreat into the surrounding wilderness.

Similarly, in Zamfara State, the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA carried out precision strikes after receiving intelligence on a motorcycle convoy of suspected terrorists in Anka Local Government Area. These strikes neutralized numerous terrorists and forced the survivors to flee, abandoning their motorcycles in the process.

The Theatre Command emphasized that a key objective of Operation CLEAN SWEEP IV is to contain and neutralize the Lakurawa terrorist network across the North West. They also aim to block infiltration routes and prevent the use of border areas for movement, logistics, and establishing enclaves. Additionally, the military intends to focus on curbing terrorist activities around the River Niger axis and Kainji Lake National Park to prevent these areas from being exploited for attacks on adjoining communities and other parts of the North West.