By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
Troops in Zamfara State demonstrated “exceptional bravery” but suffered significant losses during a terrorist ambush over the weekend, military authorities confirmed.
The incident occurred on January 19, 2026, along the Bingi–Kekun Waje–Gusau Road. Soldiers from Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) were returning from a series of successful offensives and responding to a distress call when they were attacked at Gidan Wagni.
Despite the surprise assault, the troops fought back, preventing the attackers from reaching nearby communities. The engagement, however, came at a high cost, with five soldiers and one police officer killed.
Reinforcements, including a Mobile Strike Team and a Quick Reaction Force personally led by a Brigade Commander, swiftly mobilized to the scene. A counter-ambush forced the terrorists to withdraw.
Credible intelligence suggests the fleeing terrorists suffered heavy casualties, with notorious kingpins JANWUYA and ALHAJI BELLO—a top lieutenant to bandit leader KACHALLA SOJA—seriously injured.
The ambush followed a major three-day operation from January 17-19, where troops raided terrorist enclaves in Birnin Magaji and Anka. Those earlier operations led to three arrests, four terrorists killed, and the recovery of a cache of weapons, including a PKT machine gun, five AK-47 rifles, and communication radios.
The Theatre Commander has condoled with the forces and commended their courage. Operation FANSAN YAMMA assures the public that the situation is under control and has urged citizens to continue supporting security efforts with timely information.