Troops of the Nigerian Army have dealt a significant blow to terrorist elements operating in Kadam Forest in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State following a successful combat operation that resulted in the elimination of several insurgents and the recovery of weapons.
The operation was carried out by troops of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Special Intervention Battalion 7, working alongside the 8 Division Strike Team under the Operation FANSAN YAMMA Joint Task Force.
According to a statement issued on March 9, 2026, by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army, Olaniyi Osoba, the troops engaged a notorious terrorist network linked to the Lakurawa Terrorists during the mission.
The military disclosed that the operation followed credible intelligence reports indicating that a large number of terrorists had assembled deep within the forest to plan attacks and kidnappings.
According to the statement:
> “The operation was initiated following credible intelligence indicating that over 100 terrorists had converged deep within Kadam Forest to coordinate attacks and kidnapping on local communities and transport their kidnapped victims to their strongholds.”
Troops quickly mobilised to intercept the terrorists before they could launch their planned attacks.
Military authorities said contact with the terrorists was established at about midday, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire.
“The ensuing firefight was fierce and sustained. When the terrorists attempted a rear-flanking manoeuvre, troops responded with superior firepower, effectively neutralising the threat and maintaining tactical dominance throughout the engagement.”
*Weapons recovered*
Following the encounter, troops carried out further operations within the forest which confirmed the elimination of three terrorists. Several others were believed to have sustained gunshot wounds while escaping the scene.
During the operation, soldiers recovered a cache of weapons and equipment including:
One PKT machine gun
Two AK-47 rifles
350 rounds of PKT ammunition
111 rounds of 7.62 special ammunition
Three magazines
Two radios
Three motorcycles
One mobile phone
Military authorities said additional operations are ongoing to track fleeing members of the terrorist network and recover more weapons.
The Army noted that the successful operation reflects the effectiveness of coordinated security efforts in the North-West.
“Troop morale remains high, with fighting efficiency assessed as strong and unwavering. This operation demonstrates the continued effectiveness of intelligence-driven, joint security operations in degrading terrorist networks and disrupting their sustainment capabilities.”
The statement further confirmed that aggressive patrols and sustained offensive operations are continuing across the area to prevent the regrouping of fleeing terrorists.
Military authorities say the latest operation is part of broader efforts by security forces to restore stability and protect communities across north-western Nigeria.