Soldiers rescued a kidnapped man found in chains during raids on terrorist camps in Katsina State's Fafu Forest this week.
The 17 Brigade Strike Group and Quick Response Force led the assault under Operation CLEAN SWEEP. They worked with the 8 Division Special Forces to target militant hideouts across the North-West.
On the fourth day of operations, troops struck terrorist strongholds near Tuga in Matazu Local Government Area. Air strikes and surveillance helped guide the ground assault.
Soldiers recovered 36 cattle, 280 sheep and two donkeys from the militants. Officials say the animals were stolen during raids on local communities.
Cattle rustling and kidnapping finance terrorist operations in the region. The recovery represents a major blow to criminal networks.
Ground forces then pushed into Fafu Forest, long known as a militant sanctuary. Artillery and aerial bombardments softened the targets before troops moved in.
Soldiers destroyed multiple camps, supply bases and hidden compounds inside the forest. They uncovered structures the militants used to hold kidnapped victims.
Two bodies were found in one hideout. The conditions suggested the captives faced brutal treatment.
Nura Yar'Adua was chained inside the same location. Advancing troops freed him during the clearance operation.
Medical teams gave Yar'Adua first aid on site. He was then transported to Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina for further care.
Military assessments showed significant damage to terrorist logistics networks. Signs of enemy casualties were observed across the targeted camps.
Officials believe the offensive weakened militant operational capacity considerably. Terrorist groups now face disrupted supply lines and coordination abilities.
The Nigerian Army said it remains committed to securing the nation's sovereignty. The operation marks an escalation in counter-terrorism efforts across the region.
