Troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, have rescued 31 kidnapped victims, neutralised five terrorists and dismantled several terrorist camps during a series of coordinated operations across Zamfara and Katsina states.

The Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday.

According to Osoba, the troops rescued 31 kidnapped victims along the Bagega–Kawaye axis in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State.SPONSOR AD

He explained that the victims were freed following a precision air interdiction carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma, supported by a follow-up ground assault on terrorist enclaves located west of the Bagega Forest.

The army spokesman said the rescued victims, who had spent several weeks in captivity, were identified as natives of Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum and Anka local government areas across Zamfara and Sokoto states.

He added that the victims had received medical attention and would be reunited with their families.

In a separate operation in Zamfara State, troops engaged terrorists along the Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis, where they neutralised two terrorists and destroyed identified terrorist camps.

“Troops recovered several locally fabricated rifles and four motorcycles used by the criminals,” Osoba stated.

Meanwhile, in Katsina State, troops intercepted terrorists along the Ruwan Godiya axis and Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area while they were reportedly moving to carry out an attack.

Following a fierce exchange of gunfire, the troops neutralised three terrorists and recovered motorcycles as well as quantities of ammunition.

Osoba revealed that one of the terrorists killed was later identified as a foot soldier of the notorious terrorist kingpin, Muhammad Fulani.

“Rifles and motorcycles were recovered from the two encounters,” he added.

The army spokesman reaffirmed the commitment of Operation Fansan Yamma to eliminating terrorism and safeguarding lives and property across the North-West region.

He said the troops remained resolute in their determination to sustain ongoing operations aimed at restoring peace and security in the region.