Security forces neutralise terrorists, recover weapons in Kebbi

Security forces have neutralised several suspected terrorists and recovered firearms, ammunition, motorcycles and other items during a joint clearance operation in Gumki Forest, Kangiwa, Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The operation was conducted at about 6:05 a.m. on Monday, September 14, 2026, by the Kebbi State Police Command and troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Fansan Yamma.

According to statements by the Kebbi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, and spokesman for the Army’s 8 Division, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, the security forces encountered terrorist elements while advancing through identified enclaves in the forest.

Osoba said the troops engaged the terrorists with superior firepower, killing several of them, while others fled into the forest.

A follow-up operation and search of the area led to the recovery of one PKT machine gun with 174 rounds of live ammunition, one AK-47 rifle with 14 rounds of ammunition, four motorcycles and two mobile phones.

Other items recovered included N87,000 in cash, military camouflage uniforms, a pair of boots, charms and assorted combat and miscellaneous items.

The police said Gumki Forest, located near the Nigeria-Niger border, is a known route used by bandits and Lakurawa elements operating in the area.

Usman said the area remained relatively calm as joint operations continued to clear the forest and adjoining routes of criminal elements.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Umar M. Hadejia, commended the security personnel for their gallantry and dedication to duty.

Hadejia said the command would sustain coordinated and intelligence-led operations with other security agencies to tackle banditry, terrorism and other forms of criminality across the state.

He also urged residents to provide security agencies with timely and credible information to support ongoing operations.