Operation FANSAN YAMMA Troops Arrest Drug Peddler, Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Sokoto
Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA (JTF NW OPFY), have arrested a suspected illicit drug peddler in Kaduna State and foiled a terrorist attack, rescuing two kidnapped victims in Sokoto State during separate operations on September 12 and 13, 2026.
On September 12, troops of Sector 1 conducting a stop-and-search operation along the Kaduna–Birnin Gwari road intercepted a man identified as Yohana Musa, who was allegedly found in possession of a large quantity of illicit drugs and other substances while travelling to Birnin Gwari.
The suspect and the recovered items have been taken into military custody for further investigation.
In a separate operation on September 13, troops of Sector 2 responded to a distress call following a terrorist attack at Unguwan Lalle in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The troops engaged the terrorists with firepower, forcing them to withdraw in disarray and successfully rescuing two kidnapped victims.
Following intelligence indicating an attempt by the terrorists to regroup, the troops swiftly mobilised to the area and re-established contact with the group.
A fierce gun battle ensued, forcing the terrorists to withdraw again. During an exploitation of the area, the troops recovered 157 rounds of PKT ammunition, phone batteries and other items.
The Theatre Commander commended the troops for their gallantry and professionalism, stressing the commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to denying terrorists and other criminal elements freedom of action across the Joint Operations Area.
The public was also urged to continue providing timely and credible information to security forces to support ongoing operations.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA Troops Arrest Drug Peddler, Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Sokoto