By Harriet Tornguvan
Troops of the Nigerian Army conducting Operation CLEAN SWEEP have intensified offensive operations against terrorist groups in Katsina State, rescuing a kidnapped victim and dismantling several terrorist camps in a sustained effort to restore security across the North-West region.
The operation, carried out by troops of the 17 Brigade Strike Group and Quick Response Force in conjunction with elements of the 8 Division Special Forces, targeted criminal enclaves and terrorist supply networks through intelligence-driven missions supported by aerial surveillance and firepower.
According to military authorities, on the fourth day of the operation, troops launched a coordinated clearance mission against terrorist strongholds in and around Tuga community in Matazu Local Government Area. The mission was supported by real-time Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets as well as precision strikes from the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
During the operation, soldiers recovered a large number of livestock believed to have been rustled by terrorists, including 36 cattle, 280 sheep and two donkeys. Military sources said the recovery dealt a significant blow to the economic activities that sustain the criminal groups.
Building on the momentum, troops advanced deeper into the notorious Fafu Forest under what military authorities described as a “Relentless Incursion” strategy aimed at denying terrorists safe havens.
Following coordinated aerial and artillery bombardments of identified targets, ground forces moved into the objective area, engaging and destroying several terrorist camps and concealed hideouts located within difficult terrain.
In the course of the operation, troops discovered a hideout linked to a notorious terrorist leader where kidnapped victims were reportedly being held in harsh conditions.
Two bodies were recovered from the location, while one victim, identified as Nura Yar’Adua, was found in chains and successfully rescued. He received immediate first aid before being evacuated to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, for further medical treatment.
Military authorities said subsequent assessments confirmed the destruction of terrorist logistics structures and revealed evidence of enemy casualties within the targeted locations, indicating a significant degradation of the terrorists’ operational capabilities.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to defending the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while urging members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies.
The Army emphasized that the fight against insecurity remains a collective responsibility and assured citizens of its determination to eliminate threats to peace and stability across the country.
