Troops of Joint Task Force North West under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have recorded fresh gains in the fight against banditry in Zamfara State after killing a suspected bandit, arresting eight others and recovering several items used by criminal groups.
The latest operations were carried out in different parts of the state as security forces intensified efforts to weaken armed gangs operating across the North-West.
According to military authorities, troops on a fighting patrol to Birnin Tsaba and Tsanu communities in Birnin Magaji Local Government Area engaged suspected terrorists in a gun battle after making contact with them at Birnin Tsaba village.
During the exchange of fire, one of the suspects was neutralised, while seven motorcycles believed to belong to the criminal group were recovered from the scene.
The military also disclosed that troops responded to a reported attack on Anguwar Sarkin Musulmi village in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area. Preliminary findings indicated that the attackers had already fled after allegedly looting valuables from residents before the arrival of security personnel.
Military authorities said the incident reflected what they described as the increasing pressure being mounted on armed groups through sustained operations across the region.
In another development, troops moved to the Kaura Namoda-Zurmi Road following reports of an attack on travellers. Security operatives discovered that armed men had ambushed two civilian vehicles between Jabanda and Dauran villages in Zurmi Local Government Area.
The affected area was secured, while injured victims were evacuated for medical attention. Efforts are also ongoing to track down the attackers and rescue any passengers who may have been abducted during the incident.
A separate operation in Tudun Wada and Dan Gulbi communities of Maru Local Government Area led to the arrest of eight suspected bandits.
Items recovered from the suspects included seven motorcycles, mobile phones, communication gadgets, power banks and military-style uniforms. Troops also destroyed a structure believed to have been used as a hideout by the group.
Security forces further arrested a suspected receiver of recently intercepted ammunition during an intelligence-led operation in Tupa village, Shinkafi Local Government Area. The suspect is currently in custody and is assisting investigators.