OPFY Troops Repel Zamfara Terrorist Ambush, Lose Six Heroes

Troops from Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), the Joint Task Force North West, showcased remarkable bravery on January 19, 2026, when they faced and repelled a terrorist ambush along the Bingi–Kekun Waje–Gusau Road in Zamfara State. The attack came shortly after a string of effective operations from January 17 to 19, where Sector 2 OPFY teams, alongside the OPFY Mobile Strike Team and DIA Tactical Support Team, executed raids, ambushes, and patrols in Birnin Magaji and Anka areas. These efforts led to the arrest of three suspects—Isiya Kwakwatawa, Ibrahim Dan Musulu, and Makau Lamba Goma—while four terrorists were killed and others escaped into nearby forests.​

During the prior operations, troops seized valuable weaponry, including one PKT machine gun, five AK-47 rifles, three AK-47 magazines, rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, Baofeng radios, and three motorcycles. While heading back and responding to a distress call about a terrorist reprisal attack, OPFY Combat Team 1 encountered the ambush at Gidan Wagni en route to Kekun Waje. Despite the sudden assault, the troops fought back fiercely, shielding nearby communities from further violence, though five soldiers and one police officer made the ultimate sacrifice.​

Quick reinforcements arrived as the OPFY Mobile Strike Team joined forces with the 1 Brigade Quick Reaction Force from Forward Operating Bases in Kanoma and Kekun Waje. Led personally by the 1 Brigade Commander, the combined unit launched a strong counter-attack, driving the terrorists into retreat. Intelligence reports indicate that bandit kingpin Janwuya and Alhaji Bello, second-in-command to the notorious Kachalla Soja, suffered serious gunshot wounds, with other fleeing militants also injured.​

ADVERTISEMENT

Supported by local vigilantes, troops pursued the attackers while ongoing clearance and offensive actions continue across the area. Operation FANSAN YAMMA, a key military initiative consolidating anti-banditry efforts in Nigeria’s North West, reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding civilians and dismantling terrorist networks.​ The Theatre Commander extended condolences to Sector 2 for the losses, praised the troops’ valor and professionalism, and urged residents to provide timely intelligence for sustained security gains.​

The incident underscores persistent security challenges in Zamfara, where bandit groups like those linked to figures such as Kachalla Soja continue to threaten communities, but OPFY’s response highlights growing operational resolve.​