Troops Rescue Kidnap Victims, Foil Terror Attacks in Kaduna and Zamfara as Security Operations Intensify

By Pan Afric Reporters

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued three kidnapped victims, foiled multiple terrorist attacks, arrested suspected extremists and informants, and recovered weapons and logistics in a series of coordinated operations across Kaduna and Zamfara states, underscoring ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist and bandit networks in the North-West region.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA and signed by its Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, on June 21, 2026.

According to the statement, troops of Sector 1 responded swiftly to intelligence on the movement of armed bandits in a forest area of Kerawa, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State on June 18. During the operation, the soldiers successfully rescued Mrs. Bilkisu Hayatu (38), Mrs. Habibah Sadisu (30), and one-year-old Abdulmutallib Sadisu, who had been abandoned by fleeing criminals after sighting advancing troops.

The rescued victims were evacuated to a primary healthcare facility in Kadage for medical attention. Preliminary investigations revealed that they had been kidnapped from Kajenjere Tami Village in Birnin Yero on May 17 and were being moved to a terrorist hideout in Birnin Gwari before their rescue.

In another operation conducted in the early hours of June 20, troops of Sector 2, working alongside other security agencies, thwarted a planned terrorist attack on Gamdanda Village in Gummi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Acting on credible intelligence, the troops laid an ambush around the outskirts of Gummi Community and engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to retreat.

“The troops laid a well-coordinated ambush on the outskirts of Gummi Community and engaged the approaching terrorists, forcing them to flee in disarray under overwhelming firepower,” the statement said.

Military authorities disclosed that follow-up exploitation of the area led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition, eight motorcycles and assorted food supplies believed to have been intended for terrorist operations.

The Task Force also recorded success in intelligence-led operations carried out in collaboration with operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), resulting in the arrest of four suspected violent extremists and informants in Zamfara State.

Several incriminating items were reportedly recovered from the suspects, who are currently in custody pending further investigation and prosecution.

In a related development, troops arrested another suspected terrorist identified as Muhammad Mamman, whose conflicting explanations regarding his identity and activities reportedly raised suspicion.

The military also reported repelling a terrorist attack in Maru Local Government Area after reinforcements from the 1 Brigade joined troops already engaged in combat.

According to the statement, security forces inflicted heavy casualties on the attackers, with blood trails observed along the terrorists’ withdrawal routes.

However, the operation came at a cost as three soldiers lost their lives while defending the community.

“Regrettably, three gallant soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice during the encounter,” the statement noted.

In another preventive operation, troops acted on intelligence about terrorists riding motorcycles toward Tudun Barade and Badamma villages in Bakura Local Government Area.

The troops launched an aggressive fighting patrol that forced the terrorists to abandon their mission and retreat before carrying out any attack, thereby securing the affected communities.

Commending the troops, the Theatre Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA praised their courage, resilience and professionalism in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry across the North-West.

He also paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, describing them as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation.

“The Command commends the bravery, resilience and professionalism of the personnel and reassures residents across the North West of its determination to sustain offensive operations aimed at dismantling terrorist and bandit networks,” the statement said.

The Joint Task Force further appreciated members of the public for providing timely intelligence and urged citizens to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies in efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the region.