Troops Rescue 31 Kidnap Victims, Neutralise 5 Terrorists In Zamfara, Katsina Operations

Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 31 kidnap victims and neutralised five terrorists during a series of operations conducted across Zamfara and Katsina States.

The operations also led to the destruction of terrorist camps and the recovery of weapons, ammunition and motorcycles used by the criminals.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba.

According to the statement, the victims were rescued around the Bagega–Kawaye axis in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State following what the military described as a “precision air interdiction conducted by the air component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA” and a follow-up ground assault on terrorist enclaves west of Bagega Forest.

The military said the victims had spent several weeks in captivity before regaining their freedom.

The rescued individuals were identified as indigenes of Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum and Anka local government areas across Zamfara and Sokoto States.

The statement added that the victims had been provided medical support and would be reunited with their families.

In a separate operation in Zamfara State, troops engaged terrorists along the Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis, where two terrorists were killed and identified camps destroyed.

Troops also recovered several fabricated rifles and four motorcycles allegedly used by the terrorists.

Similarly, in neighbouring Katsina State, troops intercepted suspected terrorists along the Ruwan Godiya axis and Sayaya Road in Matazu local government area while they were reportedly moving to launch an attack.

The military said the terrorists were intercepted “in transit for an imminent attack,” leading to a fierce gun battle during which three terrorists were neutralised.

Motorcycles, ammunition and rifles were recovered during the operation.

According to the statement, one of the terrorists killed was later identified as a foot soldier of the notorious terrorist kingpin, Muhammad Fulani.

The army added that rifles and motorcycles were recovered from both encounters.

Reaffirming its resolve to sustain the offensive against criminal elements, Operation FANSAN YAMMA stated that it “remains resolute in its commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens across the North West region.”