Troops repel terrorist attack in Zamfara, recover weapons, ammunition

Troops of 1 Brigade Quick Response Force have repelled a terrorist attack in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State and recovered weapons and ammunition during the operation.

According to security sources, the incident occurred around 4 pm on May 16, 2026, after troops responded to reports of an attack on Illela village.

“The troops made contact with the armed attackers shortly after arriving at the community, leading to an exchange of gunfire,” the sources told security analyst Zagazola Makama.

The sources added that the troops killed an unspecified number of the attackers, while others fled the area.

Weapons and ammunition recovered from the scene included “one general-purpose machine gun, one AK-47 rifle, one extra magazine, 211 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammunition and five rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.”

The sources also disclosed that the tyres of a CSK armoured personnel carrier used during the operation were damaged during the gun battle.

Security authorities said troops have continued patrols in the area to track down fleeing terrorists and prevent further attacks on nearby communities.