Operation FANSAN YAMMA: Troops Rescue 23 Kidnap Victims, Arrest Four Suspected Lakurawa Members in Sokoto
Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 23 kidnapped civilians, foiled terrorist attacks and arrested four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group during separate operations across Sokoto State.
The operations, conducted on September 20, 2026, were based on intelligence and distress calls received from communities and travellers along identified terrorist routes.
In Wurno Local Government Area, troops responded to an attack on Sabon Gari after terrorists reportedly invaded the community and opened fire, forcing residents to flee.
The troops engaged the attackers and forced them to withdraw, while six kidnapped victims were rescued during the operation. A civilian who sustained a gunshot wound was evacuated to a medical facility for treatment.
In a separate operation along the Sabon Birni–Takatsaba Road in Sabon Birni Local Government Area, troops acted on intelligence indicating an attempt by terrorists to cross the road around Chabe Biyu.
The troops established an ambush along the terrorists’ suspected route and engaged them when they were sighted, forcing the attackers to flee. Troops subsequently dominated the area to prevent further terrorist activity.
Also on September 20, troops responded to a distress call concerning terrorist activity along the Isa–Kwanar Isa–Shinkafi Road in Isa Local Government Area.
The troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them, forcing them to withdraw. A subsequent search of the area led to the rescue of 17 kidnapped civilians.
One of the rescued victims, who sustained a fracture, was evacuated to General Hospital, Isa, for medical treatment.
In another intelligence-led operation in Illela Local Government Area, troops intercepted four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group who were allegedly moving rustled cattle from Sarma Village towards Illela.
The troops established a snap checkpoint along the suspected route, leading to the arrest of the four suspects and recovery of six cows.
The suspects and recovered livestock are currently in military custody for further investigation and necessary action, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the group.
The latest operations highlight the continued intelligence-driven efforts by Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, to disrupt terrorist activities, rescue kidnapped civilians and restrict the movement of armed groups across its area of responsibility.
The troops have vowed to sustain operational pressure on terrorist elements while continuing efforts to protect communities and enhance security across the North-West.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA: Troops Rescue 23 Kidnap Victims, Arrest Four Suspected Lakurawa Members in Sokoto