Nigerian troops apprehend suspected terrorist collaborator, destroy explosives in Zamfara
Joint Task Force operations lead to the arrest of a suspect and the destruction of IEDs in the North-West.

In a significant operation, troops from the Joint Task Force North West, known as Operation Fansan Yamma, have arrested a suspected collaborator involved in terrorist activities in Kaduna State. The operation, which took place on Thursday, also resulted in the destruction of three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Zamfara State, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the region.
The suspect, identified as Yusuf Adamu, was apprehended in the Kuyello area of Birnin Gwari Local Government, following credible intelligence gathered by the military. According to Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the Media Information Officer for Operation Fansan Yamma, preliminary interrogations revealed that Adamu had participated in recording a video of a female kidnap victim, who was allegedly sexually assaulted by terrorists to facilitate a ransom demand. Disturbingly, the suspect admitted that the victim was killed after the ransom was paid, and he received ₦50,000 for his involvement in the operation.
The military is currently pursuing further investigations to locate the principal suspect, identified as Yusuf Iliya Sani, along with other accomplices connected to this heinous crime.
In a related operation, troops from Sector 2, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, successfully located and destroyed three IEDs that had been planted by terrorists along the Magami–Dansadau road in Zamfara State. This operation was part of a broader initiative to enhance safety and security for residents and travelers in the area. The destruction of these explosives has been met with positive feedback from the local community, who are expected to benefit from improved safety and freedom of movement along the route.
Additionally, the troops recovered 73 livestock that had been rustled by terrorists in the Zamfara region. This operation was initiated following intelligence reports regarding the movement of terrorists with stolen animals. The military engaged the suspected terrorists, forcing them to abandon the livestock, which included 14 camels, 19 cows, and 40 sheep. The recovered animals have since been moved to a secure location for further action.
The military's recent operations underscore its commitment to dismantling terrorist support networks, eliminating explosive threats, and safeguarding the lives and properties of citizens across the North-West. Authorities continue to encourage local residents to provide timely and credible information regarding suspicious activities to aid ongoing military efforts against terrorism.
Sources
- Punch Newspapers Original article