Troops kill eight suspected terrorists after intelligence on moves to attack road users

Troops of the 17 Brigade, Sector 2 of Operation Fansan Yamma, working alongside hybrid security forces, have stopped a planned attack on commuters along the Kakumi–Guga Road in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State, killing eight suspected terrorists.

Security sources that spoke to counterinsurgency reporter, Zagazola Makama said the operation was launched after intelligence reports revealed that armed men loyal to a notorious terrorist leader, Idi Abasu Aiki, were preparing to attack motorists and other travellers using the road.

According to the sources, the suspected terrorists were seen heading towards the area on five motorcycles.

Acting on the intelligence, troops and the hybrid forces quickly moved into position and laid an ambush along the route.

The sources said: “The troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, during which eight of the assailants were neutralised.”

“Following the operation, the troops conducted exploitation of the area and recovered two AK-47 rifles and five motorcycles used by the terrorists.”

After the operation, security personnel searched the area and recovered two AK-47 rifles and five motorcycles believed to have been used by the attackers.

Security sources said troops have continued to patrol and monitor the area to prevent any possible retaliatory attacks on nearby communities and commuters.

The sources added that the operation forms part of the ongoing efforts by Operation Fansan Yamma to restrict the movement of terrorist groups and improve security across Katsina State and the wider North-West region.