Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have intensified operations against terrorist networks in Zamfara State, disrupting logistics activities, recovering more than N5.3 million in cash and seizing motorcycles, military-style clothing and communication equipment.
The operations, carried out on Friday across different locations in the state, also saw troops neutralise the threat posed by an Improvised Explosive Device planted along a road near Jabanda village in Zurmi Local Government Area.
The Joint Task Force North-West, in a statement issued on Saturday by its Media Information Officer, Lt Col Aliyu Danja, said troops of Sector 2 responded to information about the suspected explosive device in collaboration with a Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal team.
According to Danja, the security personnel successfully located and cleared the device before scanning the route to ensure it was safe for motorists.
The troops subsequently encountered suspected terrorists at Birnin Tsaba village in Birnin Magaji Local Government Area while returning from the operation.
Danja said the troops engaged the terrorists, forcing them to abandon the area and retreat into the surrounding bush.
A follow-up search of the location yielded two motorcycles, a camouflage jungle hat, a handheld radio and other items believed to be associated with the terrorists.
In another operation in Shinkafi Local Government Area, troops of Sector 2, supported by personnel of the Mobile Police Squadron, moved against suspected terrorists operating around Kwanar Jolof following intelligence received by the security agencies.
The troops engaged the terrorists with superior firepower, compelling them to flee from the area.
According to the JTF, troops subsequently searched the area and recovered a motorcycle, two camouflage uniforms, a camouflage vest and a jungle hat, among other items.
The operation also extended to the Maradun axis, where troops on patrol intercepted a 35-year-old man identified as Lawali Dan Alo, who was allegedly involved in terrorist collaboration and logistics supply.
Danja said the suspect was carrying a bag which he claimed contained food items. However, a search of the bag reportedly uncovered N5.302 million in cash and a mobile phone.
“Preliminary interrogation showed the suspect was allegedly delivering the funds on behalf of a terrorist leader to another individual, Kasimu Garba, who was arrested at his residence,” Danja said.
Both Dan Alo and Garba were subsequently taken into custody and are being held for further investigation.
The Theatre Command commended the troops for their vigilance, courage and swift response during the various operations.
It said security forces would sustain patrols, intelligence-driven operations and targeted actions against terrorist networks across the North-West in a bid to disrupt their movements, logistics and operational capabilities.
The command also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue providing security agencies with timely and credible information that could assist ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal and terrorist networks in the region.
(Ripples)