31 Kidnap Victims Regain Freedom as Troops Kill Five Terrorists in Zamfara, Katsina Operations

By Zainab Uzomah| Abuja

Thirty-one kidnapped victims have been rescued while five terrorists were neutralised during a series of coordinated military operations conducted by troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA across Zamfara and Katsina states.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army and Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the victims were rescued around the Bagega-Kawaye axis of Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State following a precision air interdiction by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and a follow-up ground assault on terrorist enclaves west of Bagega Forest.

The rescued victims, who had spent several weeks in captivity, were identified as residents of Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum and Anka local government areas across Zamfara and Sokoto states. The military said they have 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, killing two of the criminals and destroying several identified terrorist camps. Security forces also recovered locally fabricated rifles and four motorcycles used by the terrorists.

Similarly, troops intercepted suspected terrorists moving towards attack locations along the Ruwan Godiya axis and Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. Following a fierce gun battle, three terrorists were neutralised,while motorcycles and ammunition were recovered.

The military disclosed that one of the terrorists killed during the operation was identified as a foot soldier of the notorious terrorist kingpin, Muhammad Fulani. Additional rifles and motorcycles were also recovered from the encounters.

Operation FANSAN YAMMA reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations aimed at eliminating terrorism and ensuring the safety of residents across the North-West region.