By Abiodun Folarin
WorldStage– Nigeria’s military has said its troops rescued three kidnapped victims and foiled a terrorist mission during separate operations in Zamfara and Sokoto States.
In a statement on Wednesday, signed by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North West), of Operation Fansan Yamma, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, it was disclosed that the rescue was conducted by Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA (JTF NW OPFY).
According to Danja, the operations were part of sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and enhance security across the North West. The missions resulted in the recovery of a high-calibre weapon, ammunition, motorcycles, military accoutrements, and other operational items.
He said, “On 22 June 2026, troops on a routine offensive patrol at Bagega in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State rescued three female kidnap victims who were abandoned by the terrorists following sustained military pressure.
“The victims, who had spent about three months in captivity, were identified as 28-year-old Zainab Muhammadu of Gara Zaima Village in Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State, as well as 20-year-old Hafsat Ibrahim and 17-year-old Halira Usman, both from Mashiga/Taka Lafiya Village in Zuru Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The rescued victims were immediately evacuated for comprehensive medical evaluation and appropriate care.
Danja said, “In a separate operation on 23 June 2026, troops of the 8 Division Garrison under Sector 2 Operation Fansan Yamma, acting on credible intelligence, ambushed terrorists at Kwanar Jollof in Jangeru Village, Shinkafi Local Government Area of Sokoto State, who were reportedly moving to carry out attacks.
“On sighting the troops, the terrorists came under heavy fire, forcing them to abandon their mission and flee in disarray, leaving behind one PKT machine gun, a cache of ammunition, two motorcycles, and chains suspected to have been used for restraining captives, among other sundry items.
He however, note that the successful operations underscore the effectiveness of intelligence-driven efforts and the sustained offensive posture adopted by Sector 2 troops in denying terrorists freedom of action and disrupting their criminal activities.
“The rescue of the kidnapped victims and the recovery of weapons and military accoutrements further highlight the vigilance, professionalism, and unwavering commitment of the troops to safeguarding communities across the area of responsibility.
“The Joint Task Force (North West) Operation Fansan Yamma remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the lives and property of law-abiding citizens. Troops will continue to maintain relentless pressure on terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements until lasting peace, security, and normalcy are fully restored across the North West region.”
