Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued 27 kidnapped victims, foiled attempted abductions and recovered livestock and motorcycles during a series of operations targeting terrorist groups in Sokoto and Zamfara states.
The military said the operations, conducted between July 20 and 21, were part of ongoing efforts to degrade terrorist networks and improve security across the North-West region.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lt.-Col. Aliyu Danja, troops of the Forward Operating Bases in Shagari and Sifawa acted on credible intelligence and deployed to Wanke and Kaura communities in Shagari Local Government Area of Sokoto State following reports of terrorist activities.
The troops reportedly engaged the terrorists in a gun battle at Kaura community, forcing them to flee under sustained military pressure.
“Troops engaged the terrorists with superior firepower, compelling the criminals to flee in disarray,” the statement said.
During the operation, six kidnapped victims were rescued, while livestock and two motorcycles were recovered. The victims were later reunited with their families.
In a separate operation on the same day, troops operating in Gandi in collaboration with the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps rescued 10 kidnapped persons who had escaped from their captors.
The victims, comprising men, women and children, were reportedly found wandering in the bush around Badanma community in Gandi Local Government Area.
Military authorities said the rescued victims were handed over to community leaders before being reunited with their families.
Meanwhile, troops of Combat Team 12 on July 21 responded to a distress call along the Gummi-Sokoto highway after terrorists reportedly blocked the road in an attempt to abduct travellers.
The troops swiftly confronted the attackers and pursued them, leading to the rescue of 11 kidnapped persons and the recovery of a motorcycle.
The latest operations bring the total number of victims rescued in the three separate incidents to 27.
Commending the troops for their efforts, the Theatre Command praised their vigilance and professionalism in ensuring the safe rescue of the victims and preventing further attacks.
“The Theatre Command commends the troops for their vigilance, professionalism and swift response in securing the safe rescue of the victims,” the statement added.
The command also acknowledged the support of residents and urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
According to the military, ongoing operations across the theatre have continued to put pressure on terrorist and criminal groups operating in the region, leading to increased disruption of their activities and rescue of victims.
