Operation FANSAN YAMMA Rescues 27 Kidnap Victims, Foils Terrorists’ Attacks in Sokoto, Zamfara
Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have recorded fresh operational successes in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry across the North-West, rescuing 27 kidnapped victims, frustrating attempted abductions, and recovering livestock and motorcycles during coordinated operations in Sokoto and Zamfara States.
According to the Joint Task Force (North West), the operations were carried out between 20 and 21 July 2026 following credible intelligence and swift military response to terrorist activities.
On 20 July 2026, troops of the Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) Shagari and Sifawa launched an operation in Wanke and Kaura communities of Shagari Local Government Area, Sokoto State, after receiving intelligence on the movement of terrorists.
On arrival at Kaura community, the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce firefight, forcing the criminals to flee under superior military firepower.
The operation resulted in the rescue of six kidnapped victims, while troops also recovered livestock and two motorcycles believed to have been abandoned by the fleeing terrorists. The rescued victims were later reunited with their families.
In another successful operation on the same day, troops operating in Gandi, in collaboration with the State Security Community Guard Corps, rescued 10 kidnapped victims who had escaped from their captors and were found wandering in the bush around Badanma community in Gandi Local Government Area.
The victims, comprising men, women and children, were safely handed over to community leaders before being reunited with their families.
On 21 July 2026, troops of Combat Team 12, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, responded swiftly to a distress call after terrorists reportedly blocked the Gummi–Sokoto highway in an attempt to abduct commuters.
The troops immediately confronted and pursued the attackers, successfully rescuing 11 kidnapped persons and recovering one motorcycle during the operation.
The Theatre Command commended the troops for their professionalism, vigilance and rapid response, noting that the successful operations demonstrate the military’s continued resolve to protect lives and dismantle terrorist networks operating across the region.
The command also expressed appreciation to members of the public for providing timely and credible intelligence that continues to support ongoing security operations.
It urged residents to remain vigilant and sustain their cooperation with security agencies as military operations continue to degrade terrorist and criminal networks across the North-West.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA Rescues 27 Kidnap Victims, Foils Terrorists’ Attacks in Sokoto, Zamfara