Troops foil terrorist logistics, recover N5.3m in Zamfara

Troops of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma, have disrupted terrorist activities in separate operations across Zamfara State, recovering military accoutrements, motorcycles and over N5.3m in cash.

The operations, conducted on Friday, also involved the clearance of an Improvised Explosive Device reportedly planted near Jabanda village in Zurmi Local Government Area.

In a statement on Saturday, the JTF Media Information Officer, Lt Col Aliyu Danja, said troops of Sector 2, working with a Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, responded to a report of a suspected IED near the village.

Danja said the team located and cleared the device, scanned the road and declared it safe before reopening it to motorists.

He said the troops, while returning from the operation, encountered terrorists at Birnin Tsaba village in Birnin Magaji Local Government Area and engaged them, forcing them to withdraw into the bush.

According to him, further exploitation of the area led to the recovery of two motorcycles, a camouflage jungle hat, a handheld radio and other items.

In Shinkafi Local Government Area, Danja said troops of Sector 2, working with the Mobile Police Squadron, acted on intelligence about terrorist activity around Kwanar Jolof.

He said the troops engaged the terrorists with superior firepower, forcing them to withdraw, while a subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of a motorcycle, two camouflage uniforms, a camouflage vest and a jungle hat, among other items.

Danja also said troops on patrol near Maradun intercepted a 35-year-old alleged terrorist collaborator and logistics supplier, identified as Lawali Dan Alo.

He said a search of Dan Alo’s bag, which he had claimed contained food items, led to the discovery of N5.302m in cash and a mobile phone.

“Preliminary interrogation showed the suspect was allegedly delivering the funds on behalf of a terrorist leader to another individual, Kasimu Garba, who was arrested at his residence,” Danja said.

He added that both suspects were in custody for further investigation.

The Theatre Command commended the troops for what it described as their vigilance, courage and prompt response, adding that patrols, intelligence-led operations and targeted action against terrorist networks would continue across the North-West.

It also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to security agencies.