Nigerian troops dislodge terrorist enclave and recover weapons in Sokoto

Nigerian troops forced terrorists out of an enclave in Sokoto State and recovered a cache that included a PKT machine gun, AK-47 rifles, ammunition and motorcycles.

The operation involved the Nigerian Army’s COAS Special Intervention Battalion 7, Sector 2, under Operation FANSAN YAMMA. Soldiers advanced into areas identified as terrorist threat zones, including Manu, Alkasim and Kandam villages and the Magarya forest axis, after receiving intelligence about armed groups operating there.

Troops encountered the terrorists inside the Magarya forest enclave. The group abandoned its position and fled deeper into the forest, military sources said. A follow-up search of the surrounding area produced the weapons cache, including a large quantity of 7.62 x 54mm belted ammunition and assorted logistical materials.

The military said the recovered motorcycles were likely used to move through difficult forest terrain and remote settlements. It said the seizure would further reduce the group’s operational capacity.

Troops have continued patrols and follow-up operations to stop the terrorists from regrouping or returning to cleared locations. Military authorities warned the remaining fighters and their collaborators to abandon their activities, while assuring residents that the army would continue working to protect lives and property and restore confidence in affected communities.