By SHUAIB SADIQ

Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Kasuwan Daji, Kaura Namoda Local Government of Zamfara says it has foiled an attempted infiltration by terrorists.

This is contained in a statement on Sunday by Lt.-Col. Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations 8 Division, Nigerian Army / Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA.

Osoba said that the successful defense of the base resulted in heavy casualties for the attackers, forcing them to retreat in disarray, and led to the rescue of nine abducted civilians.

According to him, the incident occurred at approximately 0140 hours (1:40 a.m.) on 2 August 2026, when terrorists attempted to exploit the cover of darkness to breach the military facility.

“Alerted troops swiftly detected the hostile movement and responded with coordinated, overwhelming firepower.

“The fierce resistance compelled the terrorists to abandon their mission and withdraw in confusion,” he said.

The officer, however, said that during the initial engagement, reinforcements arrived and troops launched a hot pursuit of the fleeing terrorists, who had abducted an unspecified number of residents from the surrounding community during the attack.

“The relentless pursuit by the troops led to the rescue of nine abducted locals, who were safely recovered.

“Regrettably, one Army officer and one Police officer paid the supreme price during the heavy firefight.

“Additionally, two soldiers sustained gunshot wounds and were promptly evacuated by air for advanced medical care; both personnel remain in stable condition,” Osoba added.

According to him, the troops have since secured and dominated the area, and are currently conducting exploitation operations to ascertain the full extent of the terrorists’ losses and ensure the safety of the community.

He explained that the failed infiltration attempt represents yet another significant operational setback for the terrorists, capping a costly weekend for the group amid intensified military pressure across the North-West Theatre.

“The outcome underscores the increasing difficulty these armed groups face in executing coordinated attacks against highly alert and combat-ready troops, further degrading their combat capability, morale, and freedom of action.

“Contrary to rumors circulating online that six personnel died. It is worthy to mention that only one Army officer and a policeman paid the supreme price,” he said. (NAN)