Troops Foils Abduction, Rescue Kidnap Victims In Zamfara, Katsina Operations

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued kidnapped victims, foiled an attempted abduction and arrested suspected terrorist logistics suppliers transporting 10 motorcycles in separate operations across Zamfara, Katsina and Kebbi states.

The Joint Task Force (North West) disclosed the successes in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Media Information Officer, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja in Gusau.

According to the statement, the operations were carried out on July 19 and 20 as part of sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and deny criminal groups freedom of action across the North-West.

In Zamfara State, troops responded to a distress call from residents of Shiyan Abiyola in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area on July 20 after terrorists attempted to abduct civilians from a residence.

The military said the swift intervention forced the attackers to flee without carrying out the abduction.

“The prompt intervention of the troops forced the terrorists to abandon the operation and flee, leading to the successful rescue of several residents. Troops subsequently dominated the general area to forestall any further threat,” the statement said.

In a separate operation on July 19, troops on patrol in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State rescued three kidnapped victims who escaped from a terrorist hideout during a heavy downpour while their captors were asleep.

The victims were said to have been abducted on July 14 while working on their farms in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

According to the military, the victims have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families.

“Also, on 19 July 2026, troops intercepted a vehicle conveying ten motorcycles suspected to be destined for terrorist elements during a routine stop-and-search operation in Kebbi State.

“Preliminary investigations led to the arrest of four additional suspects believed to have been sent to receive the motorcycles on behalf of a known terrorist collaborator.

“The suspects and the recovered motorcycles remain in custody for further investigation and necessary action,” the military stated.

Commending the troops, the Theatre Command praised their professionalism and vigilance in disrupting terrorist activities across the region.

“The Theatre Command commends the troops for their vigilance, professionalism and swift response in denying terrorists freedom of action.

“We also appreciate members of the public for their continued support and timely provision of credible information, urging citizens to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies as ongoing operations continue to degrade terrorist and criminal networks across the theatre,” the statement added.