Troops of the Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded major operational successes in Zamfara State on August 23, 2026, intercepting a weapon smuggling attempt and rescuing six abducted motorists during two separate engagements.
In the first operation, Sector 2 troops intercepted three suspected gun runners along the Kaura Namoda–Shinkafi Road.
A thorough search of the vehicle exposed an AK-103-2 rifle, a magazine, and 30 rounds of ammunition hidden inside a bag of millet. Preliminary investigations revealed that the arms cache was en route to Yar-Galadima in the Maru Local Government Area. The suspects and contraband remain in military custody.
Later that day, troops launched a rapid response following reports of a terrorist ambush on commuters along the Anka–Gummi Road. Military forces engaged the assailants as they attempted to drag six captives into the surrounding forest. The troops pursued the armed gang aggressively, forcing them to abandon the hostages and flee into the bush.
Three of the rescued victims received medical treatment for minor injuries and are currently in stable condition.
Addressing the operations, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer for Operation FANSAN YAMMA, highlighted the task force’s ongoing commitment to dismantling criminal infrastructure in the region.
“These successful operations underscore the unwavering commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to severing the arms supply chains of terrorist networks and neutralising threats against local communities and commuters,” Danja stated. “The Joint Task Force will continue to take the fight to these criminal elements through intelligence-driven operations, aggressive patrols, and rapid response across the Joint Operations Area.”
Danja also commended the local population while urging continued vigilance to assist security efforts.
“Public cooperation remains a critical component in our mission to dismantle terrorist networks and ensure the safety of lives and property throughout the North West region,” Danja added, appealing to residents to provide timely intelligence on suspicious activities.
