Troops of Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA have recorded another major breakthrough in the ongoing counter-terrorism campaign across the North-West, dismantling an illegal arms manufacturing syndicate allegedly responsible for producing and supplying locally fabricated firearms to terrorist groups operating in Kebbi State.
The successful operation, which was carried out following actionable intelligence, led to the recovery of five locally fabricated AK-47 rifles and the arrest of two suspected arms manufacturers believed to be key players in an illicit weapons supply network fueling insecurity in the region.
According to military authorities, the operation was the result of credible intelligence that identified a secluded compound being used as a clandestine workshop for the production of firearms.
The location was reportedly carefully concealed by the suspects in an attempt to evade surveillance and detection by security agencies.
Acting on the intelligence, troops conducted a meticulously planned raid on the facility. A comprehensive search of the compound uncovered five locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, while two suspects were apprehended without incident.
Security officials believe the recovered weapons were intended for distribution to terrorist groups and other criminal elements operating within Kebbi State and neighbouring areas.
Military sources described the operation as another significant milestone in Operation FANSAN YAMMA’s sustained efforts to disrupt terrorist logistics, dismantle criminal support networks, and prevent the circulation of illicit weapons that continue to fuel violent attacks across the North-West.
The operation was conducted in close collaboration with other security agencies, reflecting the growing synergy among security institutions in addressing the complex security challenges confronting the region. Military authorities noted that intelligence sharing and coordinated operations have continued to yield tangible results in identifying and neutralising criminal networks involved in arms trafficking, banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
Investigators are now focusing on uncovering the full scope of the syndicate’s activities. The two arrested suspects are currently in military custody undergoing preliminary interrogation, while efforts are underway to identify and apprehend other members of the network.
Security agencies are also working to trace the financiers, suppliers of raw materials, distributors, and collaborators believed to be supporting the illegal firearms manufacturing operation.
Authorities believe dismantling the syndicate will significantly disrupt the supply chain that provides locally fabricated weapons to terrorist groups and other violent criminal organisations operating across the North-West.
The latest success forms part of the broader operational objectives of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, which has intensified offensive operations in recent months against terrorist enclaves, bandit camps, and criminal hideouts across the region. The operation is aimed at restoring peace, denying criminal groups freedom of movement, and strengthening security in affected communities.
The Theatre Command commended the professionalism, courage, and dedication displayed by the troops involved in the operation, as well as the valuable contributions of partner security agencies whose collaboration contributed to the successful outcome of the mission.
Military authorities reiterated that sustained operational pressure, supported by timely intelligence from members of the public, remains critical to defeating terrorism and other forms of violent crime.
They therefore appealed to residents across the North-West to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies by providing credible and timely information on suspicious movements, criminal activities, and the location of suspected hideouts.
According to the command, community cooperation remains one of the most effective tools in identifying emerging threats and enabling security forces to respond swiftly before criminal elements can execute attacks or relocate their operations.
The military also assured citizens that ongoing operations under Operation FANSAN YAMMA would continue to target illegal arms manufacturers, weapons traffickers, terrorist logistics networks, and other criminal enterprises threatening peace and stability in the region.
The statement announcing the operation was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, on July 2, 2026. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
