Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The battle against terrorism in Katsina State recorded a major breakthrough on Monday as troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, neutralised two high-profile terrorist kingpins in a dawn intelligence-led operation.
The troops struck a suspected terrorist hideout in the general area of Matazu Local Government Area after receiving credible intelligence on the location of key members of the syndicate.
In the ensuing gun battle, Hamisu, alias Mamiyo, a prominent gunrunner and second-in-command to notorious terrorist commander Kachalla Muhammadu Filani, was killed alongside Umar Bocho, a senior lieutenant in the group.
However, Filani reportedly escaped the operation with severe gunshot wounds.
Troops also captured and destroyed two motorcycles belonging to the terrorists, further disrupting their logistics and mobility.
With the terrorist commander believed to be wounded and on the run, security forces have intensified efforts to track him down and eliminate remaining threats in the area.
Residents and medical personnel around Matazu have been urged to remain vigilant and immediately report anyone seeking treatment for suspicious gunshot injuries to security agencies.
The operation remains ongoing as troops pursue the fleeing terrorists and work to restore lasting security in the affected communities.
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