Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued seven kidnapped victims and foiled coordinated abduction attempts in Katsina and Zamfara states as part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and banditry in the North-West.
The Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, noting that the successes were recorded during sustained counter-terrorism and search-and-rescue operations conducted on June 16, 2026.
According to Danja, troops in Katsina State, under Operation CLEAN SWEEP 3, intensified offensive operations against terrorist enclaves in Matazu Local Government Area. The operation, which builds on the recent rescue of the spouse of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, targeted a known terrorist hideout in Fafu Village.
He said the terrorists fled the area after being overwhelmed by the troops’ superior firepower, abandoning their camp and several captives. Following a clearance operation, four kidnapped victims were rescued and are currently receiving medical attention for injuries sustained during captivity.
In a related operation in Zamfara State, troops deployed to Zurmi Local Government Area foiled an attempted kidnapping in Zurmi town after responding swiftly to a distress call.
Danja stated that the terrorists infiltrated the community with the intention of abducting residents but were engaged in a fierce gun battle by security forces. Unable to withstand the troops’ firepower, the attackers fled the area.
He added that a subsequent search and exploitation of the scene led to the rescue of three abducted victims, who were safely reunited with their families.
The military spokesman said the latest achievements underscore Operation FANSAN YAMMA’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the North-West.
He reiterated that troops remain determined to sustain offensive operations against terrorists and bandits, denying them freedom of action and restoring peace and normalcy to affected communities.
