Troops neutralise terrorists, recover arms in Kadam forest operation in Sokoto

Troops of the Nigerian Army have recorded a major operational success after engaging a group of suspected terrorists in Kadam Forest in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The operation was carried out by troops of the Chief of Army Staff Special Intervention Battalion 7 in collaboration with the 8 Division Strike Team under Operation FANSAN YAMMA.

The operation followed credible intelligence that more than 100 terrorists linked to the Lakurawa extremist group had assembled deep inside the forest to plan attacks on nearby communities and transport kidnapped victims to their hideouts.

Acting on the intelligence, troops mobilised to intercept the group and made contact with the terrorists at about 12:00 p.m., leading to an intense gun battle.

During the clash, the terrorists reportedly attempted a rear-flanking manoeuvre, but troops maintained tactical superiority and repelled the attack with sustained firepower.

Subsequent exploitation of the area confirmed that at least three terrorists were neutralised, while several others were believed to have sustained gunshot injuries while fleeing into the forest.

Security forces recovered one PKT machine gun, two AK-47 rifles, 350 rounds of PKT ammunition, 111 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, three magazines, two communication radios, three motorcycles and a mobile phone.

Military authorities said follow-up operations are ongoing to track fleeing insurgents and recover additional weapons.

The Force Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA commended the troops for their professionalism and high morale, noting that the success underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-led joint operations in disrupting terrorist activities.

He added that aggressive patrols and sustained operations would continue across the area to prevent fleeing fighters from regrouping or launching fresh attacks on communities and transport routes.

The operation has also boosted confidence among residents of Tangaza and neighbouring communities, reinforcing the military’s resolve to maintain security across Sokoto State.