Troops Rescue Kidnap Victims, Recover Weapons In Zamfara, Sokoto

Troops of Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued three kidnapped victims and thwarted an alleged terrorist mission in Zamfara and Sokoto states.

A statement by the Media Information officer of Operation Fansan Yamma OPFY Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, said the operations were carried out as part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and banditry across the North West.

Lt. Col. Danja also said the operation led to the recovery of a high-calibre weapon, ammunition, motorcycles and other operational materials.

The media information officer further said the rescue operation took place on June 22 during a routine offensive patrol at Bagega in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

According to the him, the rescued victims were abandoned by their captors following sustained pressure mounted by troops.

The victims were identified as 28-year-old Zainab Muhammadu from Gara Zaima village in Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara, and Hafsat Ibrahim, 20, alongside Halira Usman, 17, both from Mashiga/Taka Lafiya village in Zuru Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

Danja also disclosed that the victims had spent about three months in captivity before regaining freedom and were subsequently evacuated for medical attention and necessary care.

In another operation on June 23, troops of 8 Division Garrison under Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA reportedly acted on intelligence indicating the movement of suspected terrorists in Kwanar Jollof area of Jangeru village in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

Danja said the troops laid an ambush and engaged the suspected terrorists, forcing them to abandon their mission and flee the area.

Items recovered from the scene included one PKT machine gun, ammunition, two motorcycles, chains suspected to have been used to restrain victims, and other materials.

Danja also said the operations reflected the effectiveness of intelligence-led offensives and reaffirmed the commitment of troops to sustaining pressure on criminal elements to restore peace and security across the North West region.(Daily trust)