- Safiu Kehinde
At least five soldiers and one police officer attached to the Operation Fasan Yamma and Joint Task Force North West have been killed in an ambush attack by suspected terrorists in Gidan Wagni area of Katsina state.
This was confirmed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the operation’s Media Information Officer, Cpt. David Adewusi.
According to the statement, the officers came under attack while returning from other operations and responding to a distress call on terrorist reprisal attack.
The troops attached to the OPFY Combat Team 1, were attacked by the terrorists at Gidan Wagni while en route to Kekun Waje.
While they had reportedly put up a good fight with the terrorists, forcing them to withdraw, the six officers tragically paid the ultimate price before the arrival of reinforcement.
“Despite the surprise of the ambush, the troops responded gallantly, engaging the terrorists and preventing further harm to nearby communities.
“Regrettably, five soldiers and one police officer paid the supreme sacrifice during the encounter.
“Upon receipt of the distress report, the OPFY Mobile Strike Team, in conjunction with troops of 1 Brigade Quick Reaction Force from Forward Operating Bases Kanoma and Kekun Waje, swiftly mobilised to the scene.
“The reinforcement was personally led by the Commander 1 Brigade, underscoring the high level of coordination, and commitment within the operation.
“The combined force mounted a robust counter-ambush which forced the terrorists to withdraw, with credible intelligence indicating that notorious bandits kingpin JANWUYA and ALHAJI BELLO the 2iC to KACHALLA SOJA seriously injured during the encountered some of the fleeing elements sustained gunshot injuries.
“Troops, supported by community vigilantes, subsequently conducted pursuit while further exploitation and offensive operations continue.” Adewusi wrote.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA assured the public that the situation is under control and remains fully committed to protecting lives and properties of innocent citizens while sustaining pressure on terrorist elements and restoring lasting peace across the Joint Operations Area.
The Theatre Commander condoled with commander sector 2 on this loss and further commended the troops for their courage, sacrifice, and professionalism.
Additionally, he encouraged members of the public to remain calm and continue to support ongoing security efforts through timely and credible information.
Meanwhile, during the operations conducted from 17 to 19 January 2026, the OPFY arrested three suspects—Isiya Kwakwatawa, Ibrahim Dan Musulu, and Makau Lamba Goma, while four terrorists were neutralised and others fled into the forest.
Items recovered included 1 PKT machine gun, 5 AK-47 rifles, 3 Ak 47 magazines, other items are rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, Baofeng radios,3 motorcycles.