Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 8 Division have successfully repelled a deadly ambush targeting Major General Bemgha Koughna, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), near Mayama Hill in Kebbi State. The attack, described by authorities as a major counter-offensive, disrupted what appeared to be a coordinated attempt by terrorist elements to strike military leadership in the North-West.
The GOC, who also serves as Commander Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, was en route to visit frontline troops when the convoy came under sudden gunfire from suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group operating in the forested corridor.
Despite the surprise assault, troops accompanying the commander responded swiftly and decisively, neutralising five attackers while others reportedly fled with gunshot wounds. The Army said the intervention secured the convoy and disrupted the terrorists’ operational plans.
Following the encounter, soldiers conducted a thorough sweep of the area, recovering a range of weapons and equipment believed to belong to the fleeing insurgents. Items seized include one OJC gun, one PKT machine gun, two AK-47 rifles, four AK-47 magazines, a bandolier of PKT ammunition, and rounds of 12.7mm ammunition.
Troops also recovered a camel bag containing ₦840,000, two mobile phones suspected of holding intelligence value, and five motorcycles believed to have been used by the attackers for mobility. Military authorities said the captured weapons and devices would support ongoing intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks across Kebbi and neighbouring states.
The Army affirmed that troops remain on high alert in the area to prevent further attacks and consolidate territorial gains. Security analysts observed that the ambush highlights the pressure armed groups face amid sustained military operations in the region.
The North-West has faced persistent security challenges, with armed groups frequently attacking communities, security formations, and travellers. The latest incident underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to containing and dismantling terrorist elements operating within the region.
