Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued 31 kidnapped victims and neutralised five terrorists in coordinated offensives across Zamfara and Katsina states, in what authorities described as a sustained push against banditry in the North-West.
The military also confirmed the destruction of several terrorist camps and the recovery of firearms, ammunition and motorcycles during the multi-pronged operations.
In a statement on Friday, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, said the major breakthrough occurred around the Bagega–Kawaye axis in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where the abducted victims were freed following a combined air and ground assault.
According to him, the operation began with a precision air interdiction by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, which was immediately followed by a ground offensive on terrorist hideouts located west of Bagega Forest.
“The kidnapped victims were rescued from captivity following a precision air interdiction conducted by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and a follow-on ground operation on terrorist enclaves west of Bagega Forest,” Osoba said.
He disclosed that the freed victims had been held for several weeks and were drawn from communities across Zamfara and Sokoto States, including Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum and Anka local government areas.
Osoba added that the rescued persons had been given medical attention and would soon be reunited with their families.
In a separate operation within Zamfara State, troops engaged terrorists along the Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis, where two suspects were neutralised and several camps destroyed, further degrading criminal networks in the area. Fabricated rifles and four motorcycles were also recovered.
Meanwhile, in Katsina State, troops foiled what appeared to be a coordinated plan by armed groups to launch fresh attacks.
The army said the terrorists were intercepted at the Ruwan Godiya axis and along Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area while moving in transit.
A fierce gun battle ensued, leading to the neutralisation of three terrorists and the recovery of motorcycles and quantities of ammunition.
“One of the neutralised terrorists was identified as a foot soldier loyal to a notorious terrorist kingpin, Muhammad Fulani,” the statement added.
The Army reaffirmed that Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains committed to sustained offensive operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and restoring stability across the North-West region.
“Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains resolute in its commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens across the North West region,” Osoba said.
FOLLOW US
FOR MORE HERE
