Soldiers thwart terrorist attack, recover AK-47 in Kaduna

Troops of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have thwarted a suspected terrorist attack, recovered an AK-47 rifle and arrested a suspected criminal during separate operations in Kaduna State.

The operations were conducted between September 23 and 24, 2026, in Kachia Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Media Information Officer of the JTF North-West, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, said troops of Sector 1 acted on credible intelligence about the movement of terrorists through the bushes around Rijana, Kachia Local Government Area.

Danja said the troops swiftly mobilised to the area, laid an ambush and engaged the terrorists after sighting them.

He said, “Following the engagement, troops conducted a follow-up exploitation of the general area, leading to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and a magazine loaded with 13 rounds of ammunition.”

According to him, the troops also recovered a magazine carrier and a military jungle hat, among other items.

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In a separate operation on the same day, troops of Sector 1 conducted a clearance operation in Awom village, also in Kachia LGA, to deny terrorists and other criminal elements safe haven in the community.

Danja said the operation resulted in the arrest of a suspected criminal identified as Jacob, who was allegedly found in possession of a fabricated pistol and seven rounds of ammunition.

He added that the suspect remained in military custody and was assisting with the ongoing investigation.

The JTF spokesperson said the Theatre Command commended the troops for their vigilance, professionalism and prompt response during the operations.

“The troops remain resolute in sustaining offensive and clearance operations to thwart terrorist activities, deny criminal elements freedom of action and protect communities within the Joint Operations Area,” he said.