Troops of the Nigerian military under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, working with local vigilantes, have captured several senior commanders of the notorious Kachalla Maha terrorist group in Katsina State.
The operation, conducted on Sunday, September 20, 2026, reportedly led to the arrest of Samagi, identified as one of the group’s top commanders, alongside other senior members.
The Kachalla Maha group has been linked to kidnapping, killings and other violent attacks across parts of the North-West, including Katsina and neighbouring states. Some of its members are also accused of involvement in the abduction and killing of Major General Abubakar Rabe.
The successful operation is expected to provide security agencies with valuable intelligence on the group’s leadership structure, hideouts, operational methods, supply networks and possible collaborators.
The collaboration between the military and local vigilantes also underscores the importance of credible local intelligence in tracking terrorist groups operating across difficult and remote terrain.
The arrested suspects are expected to undergo further investigation to establish their individual roles in the group and determine their possible involvement in previous attacks.
Further details from the military, including the exact number of suspects arrested and any weapons or other items recovered, are expected to be released.
The development comes as security forces intensify coordinated operations aimed at dismantling terrorist and criminal networks and restoring security across the North-West.