Residents of Anka local government area in Zamfara State have lauded the President Bola Tinubu; Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammed Matawalle, and Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, following the successful elimination of a notorious terrorist commander, Mati, and several of his fighters in a recent counter-terrorism operation in the North-West backed by the Federal Government.
In a statement signed by chairman of Anka community, Muhammed Usman Anka, locals expressed their appreciation to the Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle, for his role in supporting the military operation.
The mission, part of a broader strategy to tackle insecurity in the North-West region, reportedly led to the recovery of a cache of weapons and the dismantling of key terrorist infrastructure.
According to the statement, the offensive was launched under “Operation Munzo,” a government-led initiative aimed at restoring peace to Zamfara State and other violence-plagued areas.
Troops began their advance from Bagega in Anka local government area, clearing the villages of Tibuki and Sabuwar Tunga before storming the heavily fortified camp of Mati.
The battle, described as intense, culminated in a decisive victory for Nigerian forces. Mati—linked to a series of high-profile attacks, kidnappings, and banditry in the region—was neutralised alongside several of his lieutenants during the exchange of gunfire.
Among the items recovered from the terrorist enclave were one PKT machine gun with two belts of ammunition, five AK-47 rifles, 12 magazines, 487 rounds of ammunition, three Baofeng communication radios, and a set of military and police uniforms.
Troops also destroyed three motorcycles used by the militants and recovered several rustled cattle.
All communications equipment found in the camp were dismantled to disrupt future terrorist coordination.
Speaking on the success of the operation, Dr Matawalle praised the bravery and professionalism of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“Operation Munzo is part of our ongoing strategy to dismantle terrorist strongholds and restore lasting peace to Zamfara and neighbouring states,” he said.
“The days of these criminals are numbered. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued clear directives to deal decisively with terrorists and re-establish law and order nationwide.”
Dr Matawalle reaffirmed the Defence Ministry’s commitment to fully supporting the Armed Forces in their efforts to secure the region.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
‘Operation Munzo’ remains ongoing, with troops combing through forested areas to locate and eliminate remaining insurgent elements.
