Nigerian troops have eliminated two senior commanders of a terrorist network led by Kachalla Muhammadu Filani in Katsina State, in an intelligence-led operation that the military described as a significant setback for one of the region's most feared criminal networks.
Operation Details and Casualties
Soldiers from Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force North West, operating under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, stormed a hideout near Kogo Village in Matazu Local Government Area on Monday, August 31. The troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, resulting in the deaths of two key commanders identified as Hamisu, widely known as Mamiyo, and Umar Bocho.
According to Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Mamiyo served as the second-in-command to Filani and was a notorious gunrunner. Umar Bocho was also a key figure within the network, as reported by Daily Trust.
Kingpin Escapes with Injuries
Filani himself was not captured during the operation. Lt. Col. Danja confirmed that the kingpin managed to escape but sustained gunshot wounds in the process. Troops have since extended their search across the surrounding terrain in pursuit of the fleeing leader and other members of his group, as reported by Leadership.
The military said eliminating the two commanders would weaken the network's ability to carry out attacks and disrupt its wider criminal operations across the region.
Impact on Local Communities
Residents of communities near Matazu told journalists that the group's activities had terrorised several local government areas including Musawa, Dutsinma, Kankia and Kusada. Victims reported abductions, killings, livestock rustling and interference with farming activities over an extended period.
One resident said the operation had given relief to farmers who had long been unable to safely reach their farmlands. A community leader, while welcoming the military action, called on troops to maintain pressure on the surviving members to prevent them from regrouping and resuming attacks.
Public Appeal and Ongoing Operations
The military issued a public appeal to residents of Matazu and nearby communities, as well as medical workers, to alert security agencies to anyone seeking treatment for gunshot wounds. This call is part of efforts to track down Filani, who is believed to be injured and possibly seeking medical attention in or around the area.
Troops are continuing operations to clear the region of remaining threats linked to the Filani network. Meanwhile, the Nigerian military confirmed the rescue of 21 victims, including 15 NYSC corps members, from a forest in Kogi State. The rescued corps members were among those abducted while travelling from Abuja to Bayelsa State last week. The military also revealed it neutralised over 332 terrorists and rescued 610 kidnap victims across Nigeria in August alone.
