Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued three kidnapped victims and foiled a terrorist attack during separate operations in Zamfara and Sokoto states, in a major boost to ongoing efforts to combat insecurity in the North-West region.
According to an official signed statement by the Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the operations led to the recovery of a high-calibre weapon, ammunition, motorcycles, military accoutrements and other operational items.
Lieutenant Colonel Danja stated that on June 22, 2026, troops conducting a routine offensive patrol in Bagega, Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State, rescued three female kidnap victims who were abandoned by their captors due to sustained military pressure.
The rescued victims were identified as 28-year-old Zainab Muhammadu from Gara Zaima Village in Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State, as well as 20-year-old Hafsat Ibrahim and 17-year-old Halira Usman, both from Mashiga/Taka Lafiya Village in Zuru Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
According to the statement, the victims had spent approximately three months in captivity before regaining their freedom. They were immediately evacuated for medical evaluation and necessary care.
In a separate operation conducted on June 23, 2026, troops of 8 Division Garrison under Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, acting on credible intelligence, laid an ambush at Kwanar Jollof in Jangeru Village, Shinkafi Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The troops were reportedly targeting terrorists believed to be mobilising for an attack when they intercepted the group. Upon sighting the troops, the terrorists came under heavy fire and fled the scene, abandoning their mission.
The troops subsequently recovered one PKT machine gun, a cache of ammunition, two motorcycles, chains suspected to have been used to restrain kidnapped victims and several other items.
The military described the operations as further evidence of the effectiveness of intelligence-led missions and the sustained offensive posture adopted by troops to deny terrorists and other criminal elements freedom of action across the region.
The statement noted that the rescue of the victims and the recovery of weapons and operational equipment underscore the vigilance, professionalism and commitment of troops to protecting communities within the Joint Task Force’s area of responsibility.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA reaffirmed its determination to sustain pressure on terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements until lasting peace, security and normalcy are restored across the North-West.
The military also assured residents that ongoing operations would continue to target criminal networks threatening lives and property in the region.
