A cash trail allegedly linked to a terrorist leader has led security forces to two suspected logistics suppliers in Zamfara State, in one of the latest operations targeting the support networks sustaining terrorist activities across the North-West.
The breakthrough came after troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, carried out coordinated operations across Zurmi, Birnin Magaji, Shinkafi and Maradun Local Government Areas on Friday.
The operation began with the disruption of a suspected attack when troops, working with the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, located and safely neutralised an Improvised Explosive Device near Jabanda village in Zurmi LGA.
After clearing the road and reopening it to motorists, the troops encountered terrorists at Birnin Tsaba in Birnin Magaji.
The terrorists reportedly fled into the bush following an exchange of fire, abandoning two motorcycles, a camouflage jungle hat, a handheld radio and other items.
A similar encounter occurred in Shinkafi LGA, where troops and personnel of the Mobile Police Squadron engaged suspected terrorists around Kwanar Jolof.
The terrorists were forced to withdraw, while troops recovered a motorcycle, two camouflage uniforms, a camouflage vest and a jungle hat during a follow-up search.
However, the operation took a different turn in Maradun, where troops intercepted 35-year-old Lawali Dan Alo, described by the military as a suspected terrorist collaborator and logistics vendor.
According to the Theatre Command, Dan Alo claimed that the bag in his possession contained food items.
A search allegedly revealed N5.302 million in cash and a mobile phone.
Military authorities said preliminary interrogation indicated that the suspect was allegedly conveying the money on behalf of a terrorist leader to another individual, identified as Kasimu Garba.
Garba was subsequently arrested at his residence.
The development has shifted attention beyond the battlefield to the financial and supply channels that enable terrorist groups to operate, with the military increasingly relying on intelligence-led operations to identify individuals allegedly providing money, equipment and other support.
Both suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation.
The Theatre Command said the operations demonstrated the troops’ vigilance and commitment to disrupting terrorist activities and their support structures, assuring that sustained patrols and intelligence-driven operations would continue across the North-West.