Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 41 travellers who were reportedly abducted after their commercial vehicle broke down along a major highway in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Preliminary reports indicated that the vehicle, travelling from Senegal to Kano State, developed a mechanical fault along the highway, providing an opportunity for suspected bandits to target the stranded passengers and attempt to move them into the surrounding area.
The Nigerian army disclosed this in a statement shared on its Facebook page on Tuesday.
Acting on actionable intelligence, the troops swiftly mobilised to the scene and engaged the armed group with superior firepower.
The pressure from the troops reportedly forced the attackers to abandon the victims and flee into nearby farmlands, allowing the security forces to rescue all 41 travellers safely.
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The rescued victims comprised 24 males, 10 females and seven children.
It was gathered that the travellers were reportedly rescued unharmed and are currently receiving necessary support before being reunited with their families and relevant transit authorities.
The Nigerian army said its troops have maintained an active presence in the area as efforts continue to ensure the safety of other travellers along the highway and track down the fleeing suspects.
The operation underscores ongoing efforts by the Nigerian army to respond swiftly to threats against commuters and disrupt criminal activities along major routes in the North-West.
