Troops gun down terrorists, recover weapons in dawn raid on Katsina enclave

Troops of Operation “FANSAN YAMMA” have neutralised two suspected terrorists and recovered weapons, motorcycles and livestock during an intelligence-led raid on a terrorist enclave in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

This is contained in an Operational report made available to NAN on Monday.

The army said the operation was conducted in the early hours of Monday, under Operation Clean Sweep III.

The military said troops of 17 Brigade stormed the suspected terrorist hideout at Ginchawa following credible intelligence on the activities of criminal elements in the area.

According to the report, the terrorists attempted to resist the troops but were overwhelmed by superior firepower and forced to flee into the surrounding bushes.

The troops reportedly pursued the fleeing terrorists along their withdrawal routes until contact was lost.

“During exploitation of the enclave, troops recovered two PKT machine guns, one locally made gun, one AK-47 magazine, 75 rounds of 7.62mm NATO linked ammunition, three motorcycles, two mobile phones and a pair of camouflage uniforms.

“The troops also recovered cows and goats believed to have been rustled by the terrorists,” it said.

The army disclosed that two terrorists were neutralised during the operation, while several others escaped with suspected gunshot wounds as traces of blood were observed within the enclave.

It said the operation formed part of ongoing efforts by security forces to dismantle terrorist networks and deny criminal groups freedom of action across the North-West.