Troops of Operation Fasan Yamma (OPFY)https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/military-troops-record-major-breakthroughs-against-terrorists-in-northwest/, Joint Task Force North West, have demonstrated professionalism and resilience following a terrorist ambush along the Bingi–Kekun Waje–Gusau Road in Zamfara State on January 19, 2026.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of OPFY, Captain David Adewusi, and made available to journalists in Gusau, the state capital.

According to the statement, the ambush followed a series of successful offensive operations conducted between January 17 and 19, 2026, during which troops of Sector 2 OPFY, in conjunction with the OPFY Mobile Strike Team and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) Tactical Support Team, carried out coordinated raids, ambushes and fighting patrols across Birnin Magaji and Anka areas of Zamfara State.

“During these operations, three suspects — Isiya Kwakwatawa, Ibrahim Dan Musulu, and Makau Lamba Goma — were arrested, while four terrorists were neutralised and others fled into the forest,” the statement said.

“Items recovered included one PKT machine gun, five AK-47 rifles, three AK-47 magazines, rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, Baofeng radios and three motorcycles.”

The statement further explained that while returning from the operations and responding to a distress call over a terrorist reprisal attack, troops of OPFY Combat Team 1 came under attack by terrorists at Gidan Wagni while en route to Kekun Waje.

“Despite the surprise of the ambush, the troops responded gallantly, engaging the terrorists and preventing further harm to nearby communities. Regrettably, five soldiers and one police officer paid the supreme sacrifice during the encounter.”

It added that upon receipt of the distress report, the OPFY Mobile Strike Team, in conjunction with troops of 1 Brigade Quick Reaction Force from Forward Operating Bases Kanoma and Kekun Waje, swiftly mobilised to the scene.

“The reinforcement was personally led by the Commander 1 Brigade, underscoring the high level of coordination and commitment within the operation.”

According to the statement, the combined force launched a counter-ambush that forced the terrorists to withdraw, with credible intelligence indicating that notorious bandit kingpins Janwuya and Alhaji Bello, the second-in-command to Kachalla Soja, were seriously injured during the encounter, while some fleeing elements sustained gunshot wounds.

“Troops, supported by community vigilantes, subsequently conducted pursuit operations, while further exploitation and offensive actions continue.”

Operation Fasan Yamma assured the public that the situation was under control and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, sustaining pressure on terrorist elements and restoring lasting peace across the Joint Operations Area.

“The Theatre Commander has condoled with the Commander Sector 2 on the loss and commended the troops for their courage, sacrifice and professionalism. He also encouraged members of the public to remain calm and continue to support ongoing security efforts through timely and credible information.”