In a breakthrough against banditry and insurgency, troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have neutralised two terrorists in Kebbi State and rescued 62 hostages from a forest in Zamfara State.
The successful operations, conducted in coordination with allied security forces and local vigilantes, were confirmed in a statement on Wednesday by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 8 Division.
Acting on actionable intelligence, troops positioned an ambush for members of the Lakurawa Terrorist Group near the border between Augie Local Government Area in Kebbi State and Binji Local Government Area in Sokoto State.
The engagement took place in Kerani Village and resulted in the elimination of two terrorists. Following the skirmish, security forces recovered camouflage uniforms and two motorcycles that had been specially modified for long-range movement with thick blanket padding and integrated maintenance equipment, including hand tyre pumps.
In a separate high-stakes operation in Zamfara State, troops stormed the notorious Munhaye Forest. The area is a known stronghold of the bandit leader Kachalla Alti, who was reported to be holding several captives.
The mission led to the successful rescue of 62 kidnapped victims who are now being held in safe custody. Military authorities have confirmed that administrative efforts are currently ongoing to reunite the freed hostages with their respective families.
“These operations underscore the relentless efforts of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and its partners to dismantle terrorist networks, restore security, and protect lives in the region,” stated Lt. Col. Osoba.
The military remains on high alert as they continue to track remnants of the bandit groups across the North West.
