Nigerian troops from Operation FANSAN YAMMA killed a senior terrorist figure and seized a cache of weapons during a clearance operation in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State on Friday, August 29, 2026. The military confirmed the death of the terrorist known as Smally, described as a lieutenant of notorious terrorist leader Kachalla Muhammadu Filani.
Operation Details and Confrontation
Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North West, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Sunday, August 30. He said Sector 2 troops advanced into known terrorist strongholds in the area, where they faced armed resistance before gaining the upper hand.
Following the exchange of fire, troops conducted an exploitation of the area and confirmed the killing of Smally. Danja said the troops responded with superior firepower, which forced the remaining terrorists to abandon the location.
Weapons and Equipment Recovered
A search of the scene yielded three machine guns, two AK-47 rifles, 11 magazines, and 180 rounds of ammunition. Soldiers also recovered six motorcycles that the group had been using to carry out attacks in the region.
The operation was part of a broader, sustained offensive by Operation FANSAN YAMMA to weaken terrorist networks and disrupt their ability to operate across the Joint Operations Area.
Military Vows to Sustain Pressure
Danja reiterated the military's commitment to ongoing operations, stating: "Troops remain resolute in taking the fight to the terrorists, denying them freedom of action and creating conditions for the restoration of lasting peace and security across affected communities."
The military said its forces would continue to target terrorist enclaves in the north-west region until the networks are dismantled and affected communities can return to normal life.
