Troops Rescue Hostage, Destroy Terrorist Hideouts in Katsina Forest
Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued a kidnapped victim and dismantled several terrorist camps during a sustained offensive operation in Katsina State, dealing a significant blow to criminal elements operating in the North-West.
The operation, conducted under Operation CLEAN SWEEP, involved troops of the 17 Brigade Strike Group and Quick Response Force in collaboration with elements of the 8 Division Special Forces. The military said the offensive forms part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist enclaves, disrupt criminal supply networks and restore security in affected communities.
According to a statement issued by the Nigerian Army, the operation entered its fourth day with a coordinated clearance mission targeting terrorist strongholds in and around Tuga in Matazu Local Government Area.
Supported by real-time Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets as well as precision air strikes by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, troops successfully cleared several settlements and denied terrorists freedom of movement within the area.
During the operation, troops recovered a large number of rustled livestock believed to have been stolen by terrorist groups. The recovered animals included 36 cattle, 280 sheep and two donkeys.
Military authorities described the recovery as a major setback for the criminal groups, whose operations are largely financed through cattle rustling and other illicit activities.
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The troops subsequently advanced into the notorious Fafu Forest under what the military described as a “Relentless Incursion” strategy aimed at eliminating terrorist safe havens. Following coordinated aerial and artillery bombardments of identified targets, ground forces moved into the objective area, destroying several camps and concealed hideouts used by the terrorists.
In the course of the operation, troops discovered a hideout linked to a notorious terrorist commander where kidnapped victims were reportedly being held.
The military said two bodies were recovered at the location, while one captive, identified as Nura Yar’Adua, was found in chains and successfully rescued.
The victim was provided with immediate first aid before being evacuated to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, for further medical treatment.
Further assessments of the operation indicated extensive damage to terrorist logistics infrastructure, while signs of enemy casualties were observed within the targeted locations, suggesting a significant degradation of the group’s operational capabilities.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to defending the country’s sovereignty and protecting citizens from security threats, while urging members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information.
The military noted that addressing insecurity remains a collective responsibility requiring sustained cooperation between security agencies and local communities.
By PRNigeria
