The Nigerian Army has announced that Major General Bemgha Koughna, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, successfully thwarted a deadly ambush by suspected Lakurawa Terrorist Group (LTG) near Mayama Hill in Kebbi State.
According to a statement released on Monday, the attack occurred as the GOC’s convoy was traveling to visit frontline troops deployed in the state. The army described the encounter as a bold and decisive action carried out under intense hostile conditions.
Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation HADARIN DAJI, said the convoy “moving through the volatile forested terrain, came under sudden and heavy fire from armed terrorists.” The LTG had reportedly prepared the ambush near Mayama Hill to target the convoy.
The army commended Major General Koughna for demonstrating exceptional leadership during the operation. “Demonstrating exceptional leadership and tactical prowess, Major General Koughna and his troops responded with overwhelming firepower, neutralising five terrorists and repelling the ambush,” the statement read.
The swift response ensured the safety of the convoy while also dealing a significant blow to the attackers. “This operation not only secured the convoy but also disrupted the terrorists’ plans, delivering a strong deterrent message to insurgent groups that have been terrorising local communities in the general area,” the army added.
Following the encounter, troops conducted a thorough sweep of the surrounding area to prevent further threats and gather intelligence. A significant cache of weapons and other materials was recovered, including one OJC Gun, one PKT Gun, two AK-47 Rifles, four AK-47 Magazines, a bandolier of PKT ammunition, several rounds of 12.7mm ammunition, a camel bag containing ₦840,000, two mobile phones, and five motorcycles.
The army noted that the seizure of these items will aid ongoing intelligence and security operations, weakening the operational capacity of the suspected LTG in Kebbi State and surrounding areas.
Troops remain on high alert in the region to prevent any reprisal attacks or attempts by insurgents to regroup. Military authorities have urged residents to support security agencies by providing credible information, as operations continue across North-West flashpoints.
