Nigerian Army troops have cleared a terrorist enclave in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The operation was carried out by troops of the COAS Special Intervention Battalion 7, Sector 2, under Operation FANSAN YAMMA.

The offensive targeted areas identified as hideouts for armed groups. It also sought to restrict terrorist movement across the area.

Military sources said troops moved into several identified threat locations. The locations included Manu, Alkasim and Kandam villages.

The Magarya forest axis was also targeted during the operation.

The advance followed intelligence on terrorist activities within the communities and surrounding forest areas.

According to the military, troops encountered terrorists inside the Magarya forest enclave.

The ensuing engagement forced the terrorists to abandon their position. They reportedly fled further into the forest as troops pressed the offensive.

Troops subsequently conducted follow-up operations around the abandoned location.

The search led to the discovery of weapons, ammunition and other materials.

Among the items recovered was a PKT machine gun. Several AK-47 rifles were also recovered by the troops.

The operation additionally yielded a large quantity of 7.62 x 54mm belted ammunition.

Several motorcycles and assorted logistical materials were recovered. The motorcycles were believed to support movement through difficult forest terrain.

Military authorities said the recovery would affect the terrorists’ operational capacity.

The seizure of weapons and ammunition is expected to limit their ability to launch attacks.

Troops have also sustained patrols across the affected areas.

The continued operations are aimed at preventing the terrorists from regrouping. They are also intended to stop the armed group from returning to cleared locations.

The operation forms part of wider military efforts across the North-West.

Security forces have intensified efforts to deny armed groups freedom of movement.

The operations also seek to reduce attacks and abductions targeting local communities.

Military authorities warned terrorists and their collaborators against continuing their activities.

They said troops would continue pursuing the groups and dismantling their networks.

The Army also reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property.

It said sustained operations would continue until security and confidence are restored across affected communities.