By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY) have rescued nine kidnapped victims and neutralized several terrorists during a daring ambush in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, following the abduction of residents from Garin Bature village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
According to a statement signed by the Media Information Officer of OPFY, Captain David Adewusi, the operation took place in the late hours of September 31, 2025, after credible intelligence revealed terrorists’ movement along a known crossing point on the Isa–Shinkafi–Kaura Namoda Road, which links Sokoto and Zamfara States.
Troops strategically laid an ambush for the terrorists, who, upon sighting the soldiers, attempted to use their captives as human shields. However, the troops responded with precision and decisiveness, leading to the neutralization of a number of terrorists, while others fled with gunshot wounds.
In the process, nine kidnapped victims, three adult women and six children were rescued and immediately evacuated to the General Hospital in Shinkafi for medical care. The operation also yielded the recovery of one AK-47 rifle with two magazines loaded with 20 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a motorcycle, three mobile phones, and a pair of desert camouflage uniform abandoned by the fleeing terrorists.
The rescued victims were later handed over to officials of Shinkafi Local Government, who assured that the women and children would be reunited with their families after receiving appropriate care.
Captain Adewusi stressed that the successful operation was another testament to the gallantry and commitment of Nigerian troops in the North West. “Operation Fansan Yamma reassures residents of the North West Zone and parts of the North Central of its determination to sustain aggressive operations until terrorism and banditry are completely stamped out of states under the OPFY Theatre,” the statement read.
He further urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to support ongoing military efforts aimed at restoring peace and security across the region.
