Military rescues 31 abductees, destroys terrorist camps in Zamfara, Katsina

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued 31 kidnapped victims and destroyed several terrorist camps during coordinated operations across Zamfara and Katsina states.

The Nigerian Army also confirmed that five terrorists were killed during the operations, while weapons, ammunition, and motorcycles were recovered from the criminal groups.

In a statement issued on Friday by Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, the acting deputy director, army public relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army, the military said the rescue mission was achieved through a combination of air and ground offensives.

According to him, the operation was conducted by troops of Sector 2 in the Bagega–Kawaye axis of Anka Local Government Area in Zamfara State following a precision airstrike.

“The kidnapped victims were rescued from captivity following a precision air interdiction conducted by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and a follow-on ground operation on terrorist enclaves west of Bagega Forest,” Osoba said.

He explained that the rescued victims had spent several weeks in captivity and were drawn from communities in Zamfara and Sokoto states, including Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasagu, Bukuyyum, and Anka local government areas.

Osoba added that the victims have since received medical attention and are expected to be reunited with their families soon.

In another operation in Zamfara State, troops reportedly engaged terrorists along the Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis, killing two suspects and destroying several hideouts.

“Fabricated rifles and four motorcycles used by the terrorists were recovered during the operation,” the statement added.

Similarly, in Katsina State, troops intercepted armed suspects at Ruwan Godiya axis and Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area as they attempted to launch an attack.

Following a gun battle, three terrorists were neutralised.

“Troops intercepted terrorists in transit for an imminent attack. Following a fierce firefight, troops neutralized three terrorists and recovered motorcycles and quantities of ammunition,” Osoba stated.

The military further disclosed that one of those killed was a foot soldier loyal to a notorious terrorist commander identified as Muhammad Fulani.

Osoba reaffirmed the army’s commitment to sustained offensive operations, saying Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains focused on eliminating terrorist threats across the North-West region.