The Defence Headquarters’ Joint Task Force North West, under Operation Fansan Yamma, has launched a major counter-terrorism offensive in Katsina State following the killing of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar.
The new operation, codenamed Operation Clean Sweep III, is targeting terrorists and armed bandits operating in Matazu Local Government Area and surrounding communities.
The move comes after Abubakar was abducted alongside his wife by suspected terrorists and bandits in the area. The retired senior officer was later killed, sparking a renewed military response in the region.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of JTF North West Operation Fansan Yamma, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the operation began on 14 June 2026 with clear objectives: locate and neutralise those responsible for the attack, dismantle criminal networks, and restore security across affected communities.
The late general was buried on Sunday at about 6:00 p.m. at Gidan Dawa Cemetery in Katsina metropolis, near his residence, following funeral prayers attended by a large crowd of mourners.
Since the start of the operation, troops have intensified ground offensives, carrying out fighting patrols, intelligence-driven raids, cordon-and-search missions, and clearance operations across identified hideouts and suspected criminal enclaves.
Military sources said significant progress has been recorded around the Dikkawa Hills and neighbouring settlements.
“Clearance missions conducted in Adua, Nasarawa, and Karaduwa led to the discovery and destruction of several terrorist hideouts, logistics bases, and other life-support structures used by the criminal groups,” the statement noted.
The military further explained that the operation is being conducted jointly with sister services, other security agencies, and local stakeholders, whose cooperation has been key to ongoing gains in the area.
Residents of Matazu and surrounding communities were reassured of the military’s commitment to protecting civilians and restricting the movement of armed groups.
Authorities also urged the public to continue providing credible intelligence, assuring that all information would be treated with confidentiality.
The Defence Headquarters said troops will maintain sustained pressure on terrorist and bandit elements until the objectives of Operation Clean Sweep III are fully achieved, with further updates expected as the operation progresses.
