Troops clear multiple settlements in Shiroro LGA, neutralize IEDs during clearance operation

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of 1 Division Nigerian Army have successfully cleared multiple settlements in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, neutralizing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and sustaining pressure on insurgents in the area, a development that marks a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to secure the North Central region.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that the clearance operation, which commenced on Jan. 20, faced challenges from difficult terrain and vehicle breakdowns, including MRAP and Armoured Fighting Vehicle faults.

Despite these setbacks, troops advanced to clear settlements including Galadima Kogo, Danpkala, Angwan Shawo, Kaure, Onagbi, Iburo, Kudogo, Kori, Kampani Kpakari, Chigwamya, Chikuba, and Nabwi.

At Nabwi, troops encountered a roadside IED followed by enemy fire, which was neutralized through superior firepower.

The sources added that Nigerian Air Force assets provided close air support throughout the operation, while unmanned aerial vehicles from the Niger State Government assisted in monitoring and reconnaissance.

Zagazola note that the operation has broader strategic implications. Shiroro LGA has served as a key operational hub for Boko Haram splinter groups, particularly JAS and ANSARU elements.

These groups, led in the Northwest and North Central zones by top lieutenants including Saddiku, Umar Taraba, Kabiru Doctor, and Mamman Kabir, have exported IED-making expertise to expand attacks into Niger, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Kogi States. Their presence in Allawa–Madawaki and other settlements allowed them to establish clandestine cells, smuggle weapons, and enforce informal taxation on local communities.

Military sources stress that sustained clearance operations, coupled with intelligence-led surveillance and cooperation with air component, remain critical to denying freedom of action to insurgents.

The ongoing operations in Shiroro will not only restore civilian confidence but will also prevent JAS and Boko Haram splinter cells from consolidating influence in key strategic corridors linking the Northeast to the Northwest and North Central regions,” a source said.

Troops clear multiple settlements in Shiroro LGA, neutralize IEDs during clearance operation

Troops recover AK-47 rifle in Taraba during cordon-and-search operation

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of the 114 Battalion, in conjunction with Department of Intelligence and Analysis (DIA) operatives, have recovered an AK-47 rifle and ammunition during a cordon-and-search operation in Murubai Village, Ardo Kola Local Government Area of Taraba State.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation, conducted on Jan. 22, followed credible intelligence regarding the presence of arms in the village.

The source said the search was carried out at the residence of one Bazoe John, who was not found during the operation. Authorities recovered one AK-47 rifle, one magazine and four rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, which are now in the custody of the troops.

The source added that the operation comes after the earlier arrest of two suspected gunrunners, identified as Christopher Adamu and James Yangyang, at Sebos Joint in Mayo Dassa, Jalingo LGA and Tautre Village in Ardo Kola LGA on Jan. 11 and 12 respectively.

Troops recover AK-47 rifle in Taraba during cordon-and-search operation

Vice chairman, 64 others released by bandits in Tsafe in Zamfara

By: Zagazola Makama

The vice chairman of Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State and 64 other abducted persons have regained their freedom after a deadly ambush by bandits in the area.

The victims arrived safely in Tsafe on Tuesday, following intense efforts by security operatives and local stakeholders to secure their release.

The ambush, which occurred on Jan. 20, left a trail of destruction in Danjibga village, where a fierce gun battle broke out between the attackers and community protection forces.

During the encounter, one operative of the Community Protection Guard (CPG) and two residents were killed, while two others sustained bullet wounds.

Sources said the bandits also set ablaze four vehicles two Golf cars and two Mitsubishi Canter trucks during the attack.

Although the released victims have reunited with their families, an unspecified number of women and children are still feared to be in captivity.

The freed victims and the injured were taken to the Ahmed Sani Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital in Gusau, where they are receiving medical care.

The return of the abductees was described as a moment of relief and gratitude, even as the community mourned those who lost their lives in the violence.

Meanwhile, in a related development, another attack in Bakura Local Government Area claimed the life of a 22-year-old farmer, Burhama Sani.

He was reportedly shot dead on his farm along the Bakura–Rabah road after bandits blocked the Fadamma axis and set two vehicles conveying food items ablaze.

Vice chairman, 64 others released by bandits in Tsafe in Zamfara