Zamfara Ambush: Five Soldiers and Police Officer Killed in Terrorist Attack
In a tragic incident in Zamfara State, five soldiers and one police officer have been killed following a terrorist ambush on troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), the Joint Task Force North West. The attack occurred along the Bingin-Kekun Waje-Gusau Road on Monday, January 19, 2026, as security forces were returning from a series of successful offensive operations.
Details of the Ambush and Military Response
According to a statement released on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, by Media Information Officer Captain David Adewusi, the troops were ambushed by terrorists at Gidan Wagni while responding to a distress call about a terrorist reprisal attack. This followed earlier operations from January 17 to 19, 2026, where troops conducted coordinated raids, ambushes, and fighting patrols in Birnin Magaji and Anka areas of Zamfara State.
During these prior operations, three suspects—Isiya Kwakwatawa, Ibrahim Dan Musulu, and Makau Lamba Goma—were arrested, while four terrorists were neutralized. Items recovered included:
- 1 PKT machine gun
- 5 AK-47 rifles
- 3 AK-47 magazines
- Rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
- Baofeng radios
- 3 motorcycles
Despite the surprise of the ambush, the troops responded gallantly, engaging the terrorists and preventing further harm to nearby communities. The OPFY Mobile Strike Team, along with troops from the 1 Brigade Quick Reaction Force from Forward Operating Bases Kanoma and Kekun Waje, swiftly mobilized to the scene, led personally by the Commander of 1 Brigade.
Casualties and Counter-Ambush Efforts
Regrettably, five soldiers and one police officer paid the supreme sacrifice during the encounter. The combined security forces mounted a robust counter-ambush, forcing the terrorists to withdraw. Credible intelligence indicates that notorious bandit kingpin Janwuya and Alhaji Bello, the second-in-command to Kachalla Soja, were seriously injured, with some fleeing elements sustaining gunshot injuries.
Troops, supported by community vigilantes, subsequently conducted pursuit operations, with further exploitation and offensive actions continuing. Operation FANSAN YAMMA has assured the public that the situation is under control and remains fully committed to protecting lives and properties while sustaining pressure on terrorist elements to restore lasting peace across the Joint Operations Area.
Leadership Response and Public Appeal
The Theatre Commander has condoled with the commander of Sector 2 on this loss and commended the troops for their courage, sacrifice, and professionalism. Additionally, the public has been encouraged to remain calm and continue supporting ongoing security efforts through timely and credible information.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in combating terrorism in Zamfara State, underscoring the bravery and resilience of Nigerian security forces in the face of adversity.
