Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation CLEAN SWEEP have intensified offensive operations in Katsina State, recording significant successes against terrorist elements through sustained, intelligence-led missions.
The operations, conducted by troops of the 17 Brigade Strike Group and Quick Response Force in collaboration with elements of the 8 Division Special Forces, reflect the military’s determination to dismantle terrorist enclaves, disrupt criminal networks, and restore security across communities in the North-West.
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. Supported by real-time Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets, as well as precision air strikes from the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the troops successfully cleared several settlements linked to terrorist activities.
During the operation, soldiers recovered a large number of rustled livestock believed to have been stolen by terrorists. The recovered animals included 36 cattle, 280 sheep, and two donkeys. The recovery is considered a major setback for the criminal groups, whose operations are largely financed through cattle rustling and other illicit activities.
Maintaining the momentum, troops advanced deeper into the notorious Fafu Forest under the Army’s Relentless Incursion strategy, aimed at denying terrorists safe havens. Following coordinated aerial and artillery bombardments on identified targets, ground forces moved into the objective areas, engaging and destroying multiple terrorist camps and concealed hideouts hidden within the difficult terrain.
During the exploitation phase of the operation, troops uncovered a hideout linked to a notorious terrorist leader where kidnapped victims were being held in harsh conditions. Two lifeless bodies were recovered at the location, while one victim, identified as Nura Yar’Adua, was found in chains and successfully rescued.
The rescued victim received immediate first aid before being evacuated to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, for further medical treatment.
Preliminary battle damage assessments confirmed the destruction of key terrorist logistics structures, while visible signs of enemy casualties within the targeted locations indicated a significant degradation of the terrorists’ operational capability.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to defending the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, urging members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information.
According to the Army, the fight against insecurity remains a collective responsibility, emphasizing that sustained cooperation between citizens and security forces is essential to addressing threats to peace, stability, and national development.
