One soldier and several terrorists were reportedly killed in a fierce battle between troops and fleeing insurgents during an encounter with the convoy of the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 of “Operation Fansan Yamma” in Tsafe local government area of Zamfara State.
PrimeTimes Nigeria learnt that the incident happened on Monday at about 4:30 p.m. on April 6, 2026, as the GOC was returning from an operational visit to assess the security situation and troops deployed in Kulchin Kalgo and Forward Operating Base (FOB), Danjibga.
Security sources who confirmed the incident to Leadership said the convoy reportedly encountered fleeing terrorists at Maitashi village, resulting in an exchange of gunfire.
During the engagement, troops neutralised several of the assailants and recovered weapons, ammunition and motorcycles, while one of the soldiers who sustained gunshot wounds during the clash was evacuated to Keta Healthcare Centre, where he was later confirmed dead.
Troops subsequently cleared the area before the convoy continued to Gusau, while operations in the axis remain ongoing.
Meanwhile, the Zamfara State command of the Nigeria Police Force has announced a significant improvement in the security situation across parts of the state, revealing that thousands of residents displaced by bandit attacks are beginning to return to their communities.
The police said the development followed sustained security operations and enhanced collaboration among key institutions in the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Yazid Abubakar, attributed the progress to coordinated efforts between security agencies, the state government, and the judiciary.
According to him, the prompt prosecution of suspected bandits and their informants has played a critical role in restoring order.
Abubakar explained that the police adopted a strategy of engaging community leaders before deploying mobile police personnel to previously deserted areas.
He said the approach helped to rebuild trust and encouraged displaced residents to return and rebuild their lives.