Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), Joint Task Force North West, on January 19, 2026, repelled a terrorist ambush along the Bingi–Kekun Waje–Gusau Road in Zamfara State, demonstrating what the military described as courage, professionalism, and resilience.

The attack occurred shortly after a series of successful offensive operations carried out between January 17 and 19, 2026, by troops of Sector 2 OPFY, in collaboration with the OPFY Mobile Strike Team and the DIA Tactical Support Team. The operations covered Birnin Magaji and Anka areas of the state and involved coordinated raids, ambushes, and fighting patrols.

During the operations, three suspects identified as Isiya Kwakwatawa, Ibrahim Dan Musulu, and Makau Lamba Goma were arrested. Four terrorists were neutralised, while others reportedly fled into nearby forests. Recovered items included one PKT machine gun, five AK-47 rifles, three AK-47 magazines, rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, Baofeng radios, and three motorcycles.

While returning from the operations and responding to a distress call over a suspected terrorist reprisal attack, troops of OPFY Combat Team 1 came under attack at Gidan Wagni while en route to Kekun Waje. Despite the surprise nature of the ambush, the troops engaged the attackers and prevented further threats to surrounding communities. Five soldiers and one police officer were killed during the encounter.

Following the incident, the OPFY Mobile Strike Team, supported by troops of the 1 Brigade Quick Reaction Force from Forward Operating Bases in Kanoma and Kekun Waje, was immediately deployed to the area. The reinforcement was led by the Commander of 1 Brigade, highlighting the level of coordination within the operation.

The combined force launched a counter-ambush that forced the attackers to withdraw. Intelligence reports indicated that a notorious bandit leader known as Janwuya and Alhaji Bello, identified as the second-in-command to Kachalla Soja, sustained serious injuries during the engagement, while some fleeing elements were also wounded. Troops, working alongside community vigilantes, continued pursuit operations, with further exploitation underway.

Operation FANSAN YAMMA stated that the situation is under control and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property while maintaining pressure on terrorist groups across the Joint Operations Area. The Theatre Commander condoled with the Commander of Sector 2 over the losses and commended the troops for their sacrifice and professionalism. Members of the public were also urged to remain calm and continue supporting security efforts by providing timely and credible information.