Troops Rescue 62 Hostages Kill Two Terrorists in North-West Operations

By Zainab Uzomah

Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have rescued 62 hostages and killed two terrorists during separate raids in Kebbi and Zamfara States.

In a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 8 Division, the operations were carried out by Sector 2 troops in coordination with other security agencies and local vigilante groups.

According to the Army, soldiers acting on intelligence laid an ambush for members of the Lakurawa terror group near the border between Augie Local Government Area in Kebbi State and Binji Local Government Area in neighbouring Sokoto State. The operation in Kerani village led to the killing of two terrorists and the recovery of two motorcycles. The attackers were reportedly dressed in camouflage and equipped for long-distance movement.

In a separate mission in Zamfara State, troops launched an operation in the Munhaye Forest, identified as a hideout of bandit leader Kachalla Alti, following reports that dozens of civilians were being held captive. The Army said 62 hostages were freed and have since been taken into custody, with efforts underway to reunite them with their families.

The military said the latest successes highlight ongoing efforts by Operation Fansan Yamma and its partners to weaken armed groups and improve security across the North-West.