Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 31 kidnapped victims, neutralised five terrorists, and dismantled several terrorist camps during a series of coordinated operations across Zamfara and Katsina states.
According to the Nigerian Army, the successful operations were carried out through a combination of precision air strikes and ground assaults targeting terrorist enclaves in the North-West region.
In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army and Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the troops rescued 31 abducted persons in Zamfara State.
“Troops rescued 31 kidnapped victims around the Bagega–Kawaye axis in Anka Local Government Area. The victims were freed 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 identified as indigenes of Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum, and Anka Local Government Areas across Zamfara and Sokoto states.
“The victims have been provided with medical support and will be reunited with their respective families,” he added.
The Army spokesman disclosed that troops also recorded another success in Zamfara State after engaging terrorists in the Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis.
“In a separate operation, troops made contact with terrorists in the Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis, neutralising two terrorists and destroying identified terrorist camps. Several fabricated rifles and four motorcycles used by the criminals were recovered,” he stated.
Osoba further revealed that troops thwarted a planned terrorist attack in Katsina State after intercepting armed terrorists moving through Matazu Local Government Area.
“In Katsina State, troops intercepted terrorists in transit at the Ruwan Godiya axis and Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area who were preparing for an imminent attack. Following a fierce firefight, troops neutralised three terrorists and recovered motorcycles as well as quantities of ammunition,” he said.
According to him, one of the slain terrorists was later identified as a foot soldier of the notorious terrorist kingpin, Muhammad Fulani.
“Rifles and motorcycles were recovered from the two encounters,” Osoba added.
Reaffirming the military’s commitment to restoring peace in the region, he said: “Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains resolute in its commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens across the North-West region.”
