Troops kill terrorist commander’s lieutenant in Katsina, recover weapons in clearance operation
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, alongside the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) Tactical Team, have killed a terrorist identified as Smally, said to be a lieutenant to a terrorist commander known as Kachalla Muhammed Filani, during a clearance operation in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the troops conducted the operation at about 11:30 a.m. on Aug. 29 across the general areas of Farin Tafki, Maharba Adua and Soro Daya.
At Farin Tafki, the troops encountered heavy resistance from armed terrorists, resulting in a fierce exchange of fire.
The troops, however, overwhelmed the terrorists with superior firepower, forcing them to flee the area.
During the encounter, Smally, described as a lieutenant to Kachalla Muhammed Filani, was killed.
The troops subsequently recovered three PKT machine guns, two AK-47 rifles, 11 AK-47 magazines, 113 rounds of 7.62mm x 39mm ammunition, 67 rounds of 7.62mm x 54mm PKT ammunition and six motorcycles.
No casualty was recorded among the troops.
The troops returned to base at about 6:45 p.m. after completing the clearance operation.
Sources said the troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remained satisfactory as the security forces continued efforts to deny terrorists freedom of movement in the area.
