Troops neutralise two terrorists, recover catches of weapons, 10 motorcycles, rescue 32 kidnapped victims in Katsina offensive
By:Zagazola Makama
Troops of 17 Brigade, in conjunction with members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps, have neutralised two terrorists and rescued 32 kidnapped victims during an offensive operation in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Security sources said the operation formed the second phase of sustained clearance missions targeting the criminal enclave of a notorious terrorist kingpin, Muhammadu Filani, whose activities have affected Musawa, Matazu and Kankia LGAs.
The sources disclosed that the troops advanced into the terrorists’ hideout on the outskirts of Dikawa village in Matazu LGA on May 8, where they came under fire from armed terrorists concealed behind rocky terrain.
According to the sources, troops responded with superior firepower, overpowering the criminals in a fierce gun battle that resulted in the neutralisation of two terrorists.
Items recovered from the scene included two AK-47 rifles, 15 AK-47 magazines with four rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one iron butt of a general purpose machine gun (GPMG), an ammunition revolver chamber, and eight PKT links.
Troops also recovered one fabricated hand grenade, a magazine pouch, and 10 motorcycles used by the terrorists for mobility.
The sources added that troops successfully rescued 32 kidnapped victims from the enclave, comprising 10 women, nine men, and 13 children.
In addition, 26 livestock—14 cattle and 12 sheep—were recovered during the operation.
The operation reportedly recorded no casualty on the side of the troops, although a CSK EQ series armoured vehicle developed overheating and was quickly recovered and stabilised by a forward repair team.
Security authorities said all recovered items and rescued victims are currently in military custody pending handover to relevant local authorities.
Troops were also said to have destroyed identified terrorist logistics and life-support structures within the enclave as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the area.
Military sources added that clearance operations are still ongoing in the general area to track fleeing terrorists and deny them freedom of movement across affected communities.
