Terrorist groups and armed criminals are facing intensified military pressure across Katsina and Zamfara states as security forces launch a fresh offensive under Operation CLEAN SWEEP IV.
The operation, conducted as part of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, combines ground and air assaults aimed at disrupting terrorist networks, weakening their operational capacity and preventing their expansion across the North West.
In Katsina State, troops on Wednesday conducted a clearance operation around suspected terrorist hideouts in Dutsinma Local Government Area, forcing the terrorists to abandon their positions and retreat into surrounding bushes.
In Zamfara, military aircraft carried out precision strikes in Anka Local Government Area after intelligence revealed the movement of terrorists on motorcycles.
The military said the strikes neutralised scores of terrorists, while survivors abandoned their motorcycles and fled into nearby bushes.
The offensive is also targeting the Lakurawa terrorist network, with the military seeking to prevent its members from infiltrating the North West, receiving reinforcements or establishing new enclaves.
Operations are also being extended to the River Niger axis and Kainji Lake National Park to prevent the areas from being used as routes for terrorist movement, logistics and attacks on surrounding communities.
The Theatre Command says the operation reflects the military’s sustained effort to protect civilians, secure Nigeria’s territorial integrity and prevent terrorist groups from regrouping or expanding their operations.
