🇳🇬 Troops Rescue Captive, Destroy Terror Camps In Fafu Forest As Offensive Deepens In Katsina

Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Clean Sweep have intensified offensive operations in Katsina State, rescuing a kidnapped victim and dismantling terrorist hideouts during coordinated clearance missions across Tuga and the Fafu Forest axis.

Desk: Defence Operations

Date: Thursday, 18 June 2026

Time: 19:15 WAT

Location: Katsina State, Nigeria

The Army disclosed that the operation involved troops of the 17 Brigade Strike Group, Quick Response Force and elements of 8 Division Special Forces, supported by intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets alongside air interdiction under Operation Fansan Yamma.

Coordinated Ground And Air Assault Targets Terror Strongholds

According to the statement, troops conducted precision clearance operations in settlements around Tuga in Matazu Local Government Area, disrupting identified terrorist enclaves through sustained ground advances and aerial support.

A significant quantity of rustled livestock, including cattle, sheep and donkeys, was recovered during the operation, further disrupting the economic networks sustaining criminal activity in the region.

Fafu Forest Hideouts Overrun, Captive Rescued

Troops subsequently advanced into the Fafu Forest, applying sustained pressure on entrenched terrorist positions and destroying multiple camps and concealed hideouts.

During exploitation of the area, forces uncovered a hideout linked to a notorious terrorist leader where kidnapped victims were being held.

Two lifeless bodies were recovered at the scene, while one victim, identified as Nura Yar’Adua, was rescued alive after being found in chains. He was stabilised and evacuated to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, for further treatment.

Terror Logistics Network Disrupted

The operation also resulted in the destruction of terrorist logistics structures, with indications of casualties among criminal elements following coordinated bombardments and ground engagement.

The Army described the outcome as a significant degradation of terrorist operational capability in the affected axis.

The sustained offensive reflects a continued shift toward joint, intelligence-driven and multi-domain operations aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure rather than only displacing armed elements.

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to restoring security and urged continued public support through credible intelligence sharing.

🏷️ Tags: Nigerian Army, Operation Clean Sweep, Katsina Security, Fafu Forest, Counterterrorism, Rescue Operation, Operation Fansan Yamma

#Nigeria #NigerianArmy #Katsina #CounterTerrorism #SecurityOperations #FafuForest #NationalSecurity #ZigDiaries