Troops Rescue 27 Kidnap Victims In Another Major Victory Against Terror

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have sustained the momentum of operations against terrorists across the North West, recording major successes through the rescue of kidnap victims, the frustration of abduction attempts, and the recovery of livestock and motorcycles in a series of operations conducted in Sokoto and Zamfara States.

On 20 July 2026, troops of Forward Operating Bases Shagari and Sifawa, acting on credible intelligence, moved swiftly to Wanke and Kaura communities in Shagari Local Government Area of Sokoto State following reports of terrorist activity in the area. On arrival, troops made contact with the terrorists at Kaura community and engaged them with the troops’ superior firepower compelling the criminals to flee in disarray. Six kidnap victims were rescued in the operation, alongside the recovery of livestock and two motorcycles. The victims were subsequently reunited with their families.

In a related development on the same day, troops Operating at Gandi, working with the State Security Community Guard Corps, rescue ten kidnap victims who had escaped their abductors and were found wandering in the bush at Badanma community, Gandi Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The victims, comprising men, women and children, were handed over to community leadership and reunited with their families.

On 21 July 2026, troops of Combat Team 12 OPFY responded promptly to a distress call along the Gummi–Sokoto road, where terrorists had blocked the highway in a bid to abduct commuters. Troops engaged and pursued the attackers, rescuing 11 kidnapped persons and recovering one motorcycle.

The Theatre Command commends the troops for their vigilance, professionalism and swift response in securing the safe rescue of the victims. We also appreciate members of the public for their sustained support and prompt provision of credible information, and urge citizens to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies as ongoing operations progressively degrade terrorist and criminal networks across the theatre.

Credit: Aliyu Dana, Lieutenant Colonel, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA – 21 July 2026