Troops of Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued kidnapped victims, foiled planned terrorist attacks, and arrested suspected criminals in a series of intelligence-led operations across Kaduna and Zamfara states.
According to military authorities, troops of Sector 1 responded to a distress call on June 18, 2026, regarding the movement of armed bandits in a forest area of Kerawa in Igabi Local Government Area. During the operation, the troops rescued three kidnap victims identified as Mrs. Bilkisu Hayatu, Mrs. Habibah Sadisu, and one-year-old Abdulmutallib Sadisu, who had been abandoned by fleeing criminals after sighting the advancing soldiers.
The rescued victims were taken to a primary healthcare facility in Kadage for medical treatment. Preliminary investigations revealed that they had been kidnapped from Kajenjere Tami Village in Birnin Yero on May 17, 2026, and were being moved to a terrorist hideout in Birnin Gwari before the troops intervened.
In a separate operation on June 20, troops of Sector 2 working alongside other security agencies successfully foiled a planned terrorist attack on Gamdanda Village in Gummi Local Government Area. Acting on credible intelligence, the troops laid an ambush and engaged the terrorists, forcing them to retreat under heavy fire.
Military sources said the troops later recovered weapons, ammunition, eight motorcycles, and various food supplies from the area. The recovery was described as a major setback to the operational activities of the terrorist group.
The statement further disclosed that troops of Sector 2, in collaboration with personnel of the Defence Intelligence Agency, carried out a covert operation in Zamfara State that led to the arrest of four suspected violent extremists and informants. Another suspected terrorist, identified as Muhammad Mamman, was also arrested and is currently undergoing further investigation.
Meanwhile, troops operating in Maru Local Government Area repelled a terrorist attack after receiving reinforcement from troops of 1 Brigade. The military said several terrorists were believed to have been killed or injured, as indicated by blood trails found along their escape route. However, three soldiers lost their lives during the encounter. The Theatre Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA commended the bravery of the troops and assured residents that security forces would continue offensive operations aimed at dismantling terrorist and bandit networks across the North-West region.