Troops of the 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army, stationed in Katsina State, have successfully neutralised four notorious terrorists who were identified as key commanders, recovering weapons, motorcycles, and cash during the operation.
Details of the Operation
According to a statement issued by the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Muazu, the incident occurred on Friday during a fighting patrol conducted by the troops along the Turare-Yantumaki road. The encounter took place at approximately 11:40 a.m. when the troops came under attack by the terrorists. Responding swiftly, the soldiers pursued and neutralised all four assailants without recording any casualties on their own side.
Identities of Neutralised Terrorists
Muazu identified the neutralised terrorists as Bishir Holami, Jamilu Baki, Ibrahim Doro, and Abdurraman Maje. He added that these individuals were responsible for masterminding deadly attacks in Gobirawa, Raddawa, Kuki, and several other communities across Dutsinma and Matazu local government areas. Their elimination represents a major blow to the bandit kingpin Muhammadu Fulani, who is terrorising Matazu, Musawa, Charanchi, and Kankia local government areas.
Items Recovered
Items recovered from the terrorists include one AK-47 rifle with a magazine and five rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, two motorcycles, four mobile phones, three Android phones containing photographs of the terrorists in military gear, and cash totalling ₦153,400. The recovered phones have been forwarded to relevant authorities for forensic investigation.
Government Reaction
Dr. Muazu stated: “This development is a clear demonstration of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s unrelenting commitment to ridding Katsina State of banditry and restoring peace to every community. On behalf of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, I wish to assure all residents of Katsina State that this administration will not rest until the lives and properties of our people are fully secured. Our security forces are on the offensive, and results like today’s confirm that we are making measurable progress.”
The state government also urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies. Credible information from communities has been instrumental in driving successful operations across the state. Muazu further assured that the state government will continue to support and strengthen the operational capacity of all security forces deployed across Katsina to ensure that bandits and terrorists find no safe haven in the state.
