Troops of the Nigerian Army have recorded a major operational breakthrough in Katsina State, rescuing a kidnapped victim found in chains and dismantling several terrorist hideouts during an intensified clearance operation conducted under Operation CLEAN SWEEP.
The operation, executed by troops of the 17 Brigade Strike Group and Quick Response Force in collaboration with elements of the 8 Division Special Forces, is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist enclaves, disrupt criminal logistics networks, and restore security across communities in Nigeria’s North-West region.
Military sources disclosed that on the fourth day of the operation, troops launched a coordinated clearance mission targeting terrorist strongholds in and around Tuga, located in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. The operation was supported by real-time Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets, as well as precision air strikes conducted by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
The offensive resulted in the successful clearance of several settlements previously occupied by terrorist elements.
During the operation, troops recovered a substantial number of rustled livestock believed to have been stolen by the criminals, including 36 cattle, 280 sheep, and two donkeys. Security officials described the recovery as a significant blow to the terrorists’ economic base, as cattle rustling remains one of their key sources of funding.
Building on the momentum, troops advanced deep into the notorious Fafu Forest under the Army’s “Relentless Incursion” strategy, designed to deny terrorists freedom of movement and safe havens. Following coordinated aerial and artillery bombardments of identified targets, ground forces moved in to destroy multiple camps and concealed hideouts hidden within the difficult terrain.
In the course of exploitation operations, troops uncovered a hideout linked to a notorious terrorist commander where kidnapped victims were being held under inhumane conditions.
Two lifeless bodies were recovered at the location, while one victim, identified as Nura Yar’Adua, was found shackled in chains and successfully rescued. Troops immediately administered first aid before evacuating him to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, for advanced medical care.
Post-operation assessments confirmed the destruction of several terrorist logistics structures and revealed evidence of enemy casualties within the targeted locations, indicating a significant degradation of the group’s operational capability.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and protecting citizens from terrorist threats. It also urged members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies, emphasizing that the fight against insecurity remains a collective responsibility.
The latest success marks another significant milestone in ongoing military efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting peace and stability across Katsina State and the wider North-West region.
