Troops under Operation Fansan Yamma have successfully repelled an ambush targeting the convoy of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Major General Bemgha Koughna, during a field inspection in Kebbi State.
The incident, which occurred near Mayama Hill, underscores ongoing efforts to stabilise volatile forest corridors in the North-West.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, the convoy was attacked while moving through a forested stretch long identified as a flashpoint for armed activity.
The assailants, believed to be members of the Lakurawa group, reportedly opened fire in what appeared to be a coordinated attempt to disrupt the operational tour.
Military sources said the attack was sudden but met with immediate resistance.
Personnel attached to Operation Fansan Yamma responded with sustained counterfire, preventing the attackers from advancing toward the convoy.
The swift reaction ensured that the GOC and accompanying officers remained unharmed.
Lt. Col. Osoba attributed the successful defense to disciplined troop deployment and effective battlefield coordination.
He noted that the GOC maintained composure throughout the encounter, directing soldiers to strategic positions that neutralised the threat within minutes.
Five suspected terrorists were killed in the exchange, while others reportedly escaped into the surrounding bush.
Security analysts say the failed ambush highlights the evolving tactics of armed groups operating around Mayama Hill.
By targeting high-profile military movements, such groups aim to project strength and intimidate local communities.
However, the outcome of this encounter reinforces the Army’s claim that Operation Fansan Yamma retains operational superiority in contested zones.
After repelling the attackers, troops conducted a systematic clearance of the immediate area.
The sweep operation yielded significant recoveries, including one OJC gun, one PKT machine gun, two AK-47 rifles, and four AK-47 magazines.
Soldiers also retrieved a bandolier loaded with PKT ammunition and several rounds of 12.7mm ammunition.
In addition to weapons, the troops recovered two mobile phones believed to contain intelligence data, five motorcycles suspected to have been used for rapid movement through forest trails, and a camel bag containing ₦840,000 in cash.
Military officials stated that the materials would be subjected to forensic and intelligence analysis to uncover supply networks and logistical channels linked to the Lakurawa group.
Residents of nearby communities expressed relief following the incident, noting that recent months have seen heightened patrols and more visible troop presence under Operation Fansan Yamma.
Community leaders have repeatedly called for sustained security operations to deter attacks on villages and highways.
The North-West region has faced persistent security challenges, including ambushes, kidnappings, and raids on rural settlements.
In response, the Nigerian Army has expanded coordinated missions aimed at dismantling armed networks and restoring confidence among residents.
The latest development in Kebbi adds to a series of operations intended to deny insurgent groups safe havens in forested terrain.
Lt. Col. Osoba reiterated that the Army remains committed to protecting civilians and critical infrastructure.
He emphasised that troops would continue aggressive patrols, surveillance missions, and intelligence-driven actions to prevent further attacks.
According to him, Operation Fansan Yamma is structured to combine mobility, rapid response, and inter-agency collaboration in confronting emerging threats.
Security experts observe that targeting a GOC’s convoy reflects both desperation and risk-taking by insurgent elements.
They argue that such attempts often backfire, as they trigger intensified military campaigns in affected areas.
In this instance, the failed ambush has reportedly led to increased aerial reconnaissance and ground patrols around Mayama Hill.
Authorities have encouraged residents to remain vigilant and share credible information with security agencies.
Community cooperation, officials say, is crucial in tracking movements of armed groups who exploit difficult terrain for concealment.
The Nigerian Army maintains that the fight against terrorism in the North-West remains a top priority.
By reinforcing strategic positions and maintaining operational momentum, Operation Fansan Yamma aims to disrupt the logistics and communication networks of criminal factions.
Military leaders insist that sustained pressure will gradually weaken insurgent capabilities and restore normalcy across vulnerable communities.
As investigations continue, the Army has assured the public that every recovered item will aid in expanding intelligence mapping of armed networks in Kebbi and beyond.
The command further pledged that any attempt to undermine national security will be met with decisive action.
Ireport247news
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