Soldiers save 27 kidnap victims and stop abductions in Sokoto and Zamfara

Soldiers from Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued 27 kidnap victims. They also stopped several abduction attempts and recovered livestock and motorcycles in Sokoto and Zamfara states, the military announced on Tuesday.

The operations took place from July 20 to 21. They were part of the military's ongoing fight against bandits and terrorists in Nigeria's North-west.

Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, shared a statement. Troops from the Forward Operating Bases in Shagari and Sifawa went to Wanke and Kaura communities in Shagari Local Government Area of Sokoto State after hearing about terrorist activities.

The troops clashed with suspected terrorists in a gun battle at Kaura community. This fight forced the attackers to run away.

During this operation, six kidnapped people were rescued. The troops also found livestock and two motorcycles. The victims were later brought back to their families.

In another operation on the same day, troops stationed at Gandi worked with the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps. They rescued 10 kidnap victims who had escaped from their captors and were found wandering in the bush near Badanma community in Gandi Local Government Area.

The rescued victims included men, women, and children. They were handed over to community leaders before being reunited with their families.

On July 21, troops from Combat Team 12 responded to a distress call. Armed terrorists had blocked the Gummi-Sokoto highway, trying to kidnap commuters.

The military said the troops fought back against the attackers and chased them away. They rescued 11 abducted people and recovered a motorcycle.

The Theatre Command praised the troops for their professionalism and quick response. They also urged residents to keep giving useful information to security agencies.

This latest operation comes as military actions increase across the North-west under Operation FANSAN YAMMA.

In recent weeks, troops have reported killing several bandit leaders, destroying terrorist hideouts, recovering weapons and supplies, and rescuing many kidnapped victims in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, and Kebbi states.

The military stated that ongoing intelligence-led operations, air strikes, and partnerships with local security groups aim to break down terrorist networks and bring back security to areas affected by banditry and kidnapping.