Troops of Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued 31 kidnapped victims, neutralised five suspected terrorists and dismantled several terrorist camps during a series of coordinated operations across Zamfara and Katsina states.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 8 Division, Lt. Olaniyi Osoba, on Friday, and shared on the Nigerian Army’s Facebook page on Saturday,
According to the statement, the operations were conducted as part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and restore security across the North-West region.
In Zamfara State, troops successfully rescued 31 kidnapped victims along the Bagega–Kawaye axis in Anka Local Government Area.
The rescue followed a precision air interdiction by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, supported by a follow-up ground assault on terrorist hideouts located west of Bagega Forest.
The military said the victims had spent several weeks in captivity before being freed.
They were identified as residents of Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum and Anka local government areas in Zamfara and Sokoto states.
The rescued individuals have since received medical attention and are expected to be reunited with their families.
In a separate operation within Zamfara State, troops engaged suspected terrorists along the Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis.
It was gathered that during the operation, two terrorists were killed, while several identified terrorist camps were destroyed.
Security forces also recovered a number of locally fabricated rifles and four motorcycles believed to have been used by the criminal elements.
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Meanwhile, in Katsina State, troops intercepted suspected terrorists moving through the Ruwan Godiya axis and Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area.
Military sources said the group was believed to be en route to carry out an attack when it was engaged by security forces.
A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, resulting in the neutralisation of three terrorists. Troops also recovered motorcycles and quantities of ammunition from the scene.
One of the terrorists killed during the operation was later identified as a foot soldier of the notorious terrorist kingpin, Muhammad Fulani, according to military authorities.
Additional rifles and motorcycles were recovered during the two encounters in the state.
The Nigerian Army reiterated that Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains committed to eliminating terrorist threats and safeguarding communities across the North-West.
The military noted that ongoing offensives against terrorist groups will continue as part of broader efforts to enhance security and protect lives and property in the region.
