Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 22 kidnapped victims in separate operations in Sabon Birni and Isa Local Government Areas of Sokoto State, thwarting attempts by terrorists to abduct innocent civilians.
The military operation, which took place on June 18, 2026, was carried out following credible intelligence and distress calls from affected communities, leading to the successful rescue of passengers and farmers who had been abducted by armed terrorists.
According to the Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the first incident occurred along the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road at Kura Mota Village, where terrorists reportedly blocked the highway and attacked two civilian vehicles.
During the attack, the gunmen abducted several passengers and killed one civilian. Troops swiftly mobilized to the scene and launched a coordinated pursuit operation, supported by aerial surveillance, to track down the fleeing terrorists.
The sustained military pressure forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and escape into nearby hideouts, resulting in the rescue of 17 kidnapped passengers. The victims were subsequently handed over to the appropriate authorities for further assistance.
In a related operation on the same day, troops responded to reports that armed terrorists had attacked Chohi Village and attempted to kidnap farmers working on their farmlands.
Security forces rapidly deployed to the area and pursued the terrorists along their escape route. The aggressive pursuit compelled the criminals to release their captives, leading to the rescue of five farmers who were later reunited with their families.
Following the successful operations, troops conducted confidence-building patrols in neighbouring communities, including Gidan Rana and Gidan Sale villages, to reassure residents and maintain a strong security presence aimed at denying terrorists freedom of movement.
Military authorities said the operations reflect the commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to safeguarding lives and property, protecting vulnerable communities, and creating a secure environment for residents to carry out their lawful activities without fear.
The latest success added to ongoing efforts by security forces to combat terrorism, banditry and kidnapping across the North-West region.
