Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 22 kidnapped victims in separate operations across Sokoto State following swift responses to terrorist attacks in Sabon Birni and Isa Local Government Areas.
According to an official signed statement by the Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the successful operations underscore the force’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property while denying terrorists freedom of action within the theatre of operations.
The statement disclosed that the first operation took place on June 18, 2026, after troops received credible intelligence that terrorists had blocked the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road at Kura Mota Village and attacked two civilian vehicles, abducting several passengers.
During the attack, one civilian was reportedly killed by the terrorists.
Upon receiving the intelligence, troops immediately mobilised to the scene and launched a coordinated pursuit operation supported by aerial surveillance assets. The sustained pressure mounted by the troops forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and flee the area.
As a result, 17 kidnapped passengers were successfully rescued and subsequently handed over to the appropriate authorities for further necessary action.
In a related operation conducted the same day, troops responded to a distress call following an attack by armed terrorists at Chohi Village, where farmers working on their farmlands were targeted for abduction.
The troops rapidly deployed to the area and pursued the fleeing terrorists along their withdrawal route. The aggressive pursuit led to the successful rescue of five kidnapped farmers, who were later reunited with their families.
Following the rescue missions, troops conducted confidence-building patrols in surrounding communities, including Gidan Rana and Gidan Sale villages, to reassure residents, strengthen security presence and prevent further terrorist activities.
The military said the operations reflect the determination of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to protect vulnerable communities, secure lives and property, and create a safe environment for citizens to carry out their lawful daily activities without fear.
The task force reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining ongoing operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and restoring lasting peace and security across the North-West region.
