Fear ruled many communities in Zamfara for years. Armed groups hid in forests. They attacked villages. They kidnapped civilians. However, a recent military operation changed that narrative. Nigerian troops killed six terrorists, rescued a kidnapped girl, and dismantled criminal camps in a coordinated forest offensive. As a result, hope returned to affected communities. More importantly, the operation showed that sustained pressure can weaken terror networks.
The success did not come by chance. Instead, it followed weeks of intelligence gathering, patrols, and planning. Troops targeted known hideouts. They moved with speed. They acted with precision. Most importantly, they saved a young life. That rescue turned a security mission into a humanitarian victory.
On 25 January 2026 in the Sububu Forest, Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Nigerian Army troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 2 launched a decisive operation against terrorists operating in the area. The troops engaged the criminals in multiple locations, neutralised six fighters, destroyed camps, recovered weapons, and rescued an underage kidnapping victim.
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Troops Kill Six Terrorists During Zamfara Forest Operation
The operation began with a focused push into terrorist-controlled territory. First, troops advanced toward Indulumu village. There, they encountered armed resistance. Without delay, soldiers engaged the terrorists in a brief but intense firefight. During the exchange, troops killed two terrorists. They also recovered an AK-47 rifle from the scene.
After securing the area, the troops did not slow down. Instead, they pressed forward. Intelligence reports pointed toward deeper camps inside the forest. Consequently, soldiers advanced toward Ruduno village. Again, terrorists attempted to resist. However, superior coordination and firepower overwhelmed them.
During that second encounter, troops neutralised four additional terrorists. This brought the total number killed to six. Soldiers also recovered another AK-47 rifle, 28 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and destroyed two motorcycles used by the terrorists for mobility and supply runs.
By maintaining momentum, the troops prevented escape. They denied the terrorists any chance to regroup. As a result, the forest hideouts lost their defensive advantage.
According to reports carried by The Punch, the operation reflected a growing pattern of targeted military offensives across Zamfara. These operations aim to weaken armed groups by attacking both fighters and infrastructure.
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Rescue of Kidnapped Girl Brings Relief to Zamfara Community
Beyond the battlefield success, the mission delivered a powerful humanitarian outcome. While clearing terrorist camps, troops discovered a kidnapped underage girl identified as Halira Ibrahim. The terrorists had held her captive inside the forest.
Immediately, soldiers secured her safety. They provided first aid and reassurance. Then, they prepared her for evacuation from the conflict zone. Her rescue brought relief not only to her family but also to residents of nearby communities who feared for their children.
Kidnapping remains one of the most painful tactics used by terrorists in northwest Nigeria. Armed groups abduct minors and adults to extract ransom, intimidate villages, and finance operations. Therefore, every successful rescue weakens their influence.
As reported by Channels Television, the rescued girl was later handed over to appropriate authorities for reunification with her family. Security officials confirmed that she received medical attention and psychological support.
Importantly, the rescue sent a clear message. The military will not abandon kidnapped victims. Instead, it will pursue perpetrators and recover captives wherever intelligence leads.
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Troops Destroy Terrorist Camps Across Sububu Forest
After neutralising the terrorists and securing the rescued girl, troops shifted focus. They moved to dismantle terrorist infrastructure across the forest. This phase of the operation targeted camps used for shelter, planning, and storage.
Soldiers destroyed several camps located around Magaji, Galakaje, Filinga, and Kukatara. These locations served as logistical hubs for criminal operations. By eliminating them, the troops disrupted supply chains and communication routes.
Forest camps play a critical role in sustaining terrorism. They provide rest points. They store weapons. They hide captives. Therefore, destroying them delivers long-term security benefits.
Military analysts explained that clearing camps forces terrorists into constant movement. As a result, they become easier to track. They also struggle to coordinate attacks. Over time, this weakens their operational capacity.
According to Abuja Press, the camp destruction followed standard clearance procedures. Troops ensured no civilians remained in the area before demolition.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA and the Fight Against Terrorism
The Zamfara operation formed part of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, a multi-agency security campaign targeting banditry and terrorism in northwest Nigeria. The operation combines ground patrols, intelligence gathering, and rapid strike missions.
Captain David Adewusi, who spoke on behalf of the Nigerian Army, confirmed the success of the mission. He stated that sustained pressure remains key to restoring peace in affected states.
Unlike earlier approaches, FANSAN YAMMA emphasises proactive engagement. Troops identify threats early. Then, they act before attacks occur. Consequently, communities experience fewer raids and abductions.
According to ARISE News, recent operations under the campaign have reduced terrorist movement between Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi states.
Why the Zamfara Operation Matters
Zamfara has suffered years of insecurity. Villages faced repeated attacks. Farmers abandoned fields. Schools closed. As violence spread, trust eroded.
Therefore, the killing of six terrorists and the rescue of a kidnapped girl carry deep significance. The operation restored confidence. It reassured residents that security forces remain committed.
Moreover, stability supports economic recovery. When security improves, farmers return to land. Traders reopen markets. Children resume education. Each successful operation pushes communities closer to normal life.
Security experts argue that consistent victories create a cumulative effect. Over time, terrorist networks lose manpower, funding, and influence. Eventually, peace becomes sustainable.
Community Reactions and Local Impact
Residents of Maradun and surrounding villages welcomed the operation. Many described it as a turning point. Parents expressed relief after hearing about the rescued girl.
Community leaders urged continued collaboration with security agencies. They stressed the importance of timely intelligence sharing. According to them, local information often determines mission success.
As reported by Radio Nigeria, residents also called for increased patrols to prevent terrorist regrouping.
Challenges That Remain
Despite the success, challenges persist. Terrorists adapt quickly. They exploit difficult terrain. They attempt to recruit vulnerable youths.
Therefore, military action alone cannot solve the crisis. Development initiatives must follow. Education, employment, and infrastructure remain essential.
Nevertheless, security provides the foundation. Without safety, progress stalls. The Zamfara operation strengthened that foundation.
Conclusion
The Sububu Forest operation marked a significant step forward. Nigerian troops killed six terrorists, rescued a kidnapped underage girl, and dismantled criminal camps in Zamfara.
Through coordination, intelligence, and determination, the military delivered both security and hope. As operations continue, sustained pressure may finally loosen the grip of terror on northwest Nigeria.
For now, one girl is free. Several communities can breathe again. And the message remains clear: terrorism will not go unchallenged.
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