SOLDIERS THWART TERRORIST ATTACK, RECOVER AK-47 IN KADUNA

Troops of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have thwarted a suspected terrorist attack, recovered an AK-47 rifle and arrested a suspected criminal during separate operations in Kaduna State.

The operations were carried out between September 23 and 24, 2026, in Kachia Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Media Information Officer of the JTF North-West, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, said troops of Sector 1 acted on credible intelligence about the movement of suspected terrorists through the bushes around Rijana, Kachia LGA.

According to Danja, the troops quickly mobilised to the area, laid an ambush and engaged the suspected terrorists after sighting them.

He said the troops subsequently conducted a follow-up search of the area, leading to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and a magazine containing 13 rounds of ammunition.

The troops also recovered a magazine carrier and a military jungle hat, among other items.

In a separate operation on the same day, Sector 1 troops conducted a clearance operation in Awom village, also in Kachia LGA, to prevent terrorists and other criminal elements from using the community as a safe haven.

Danja said the operation led to the arrest of a suspected criminal identified as Jacob.

The suspect was allegedly found in possession of a fabricated pistol and seven rounds of ammunition.

He added that Jacob remained in military custody and was assisting with the ongoing investigation.

The JTF spokesperson said the Theatre Command commended the troops for their vigilance, professionalism and prompt response during the operations.

Danja said the troops remained committed to sustaining offensive and clearance operations aimed at disrupting terrorist activities, restricting criminal elements and protecting communities within the Joint Operations Area.