Troops Rescue Kidnap Victims, Arrest Suspected Terrorist Logistics Suppliers in North-West

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have recorded fresh operational successes across the North-West, rescuing kidnapped victims, foiling an attempted abduction, and arresting suspected terrorist logistics suppliers in coordinated operations conducted in Zamfara, Katsina and Kebbi states.

The operations, carried out on July 19 and 20, 2026, form part of the military's sustained offensive against terrorist and criminal networks operating in the region.

The Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, disclosed in a statement that troops responded promptly to a distress call on July 20 following an attempted attack on residents of Shiyan Abiyola in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

According to him, terrorists had attempted to abduct civilians from a residence before troops swiftly intervened, forcing the attackers to flee and abandoning their mission. Several residents were rescued during the operation, while troops subsequently dominated the area to prevent any further attacks.

In a separate operation on July 19, troops on patrol in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State rescued three kidnapped victims who escaped from a terrorist hideout after taking advantage of a heavy downpour while their captors were asleep.

The victims were reportedly abducted on July 14 while working on their farms in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State. They have since been handed over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families.

Also on the same day, troops intercepted a vehicle transporting 10 motorcycles suspected to be intended for terrorist elements during a routine stop-and-search operation in Kebbi State.

Preliminary investigations led to the arrest of four additional suspects allegedly sent to receive the motorcycles on behalf of a known terrorist collaborator. The suspects, along with the recovered motorcycles, remain in military custody pending further investigation.

Commending the troops for their vigilance, professionalism and swift response, the Theatre Command said the operations underscore the military's resolve to deny terrorists freedom of movement and disrupt their logistical networks.

The command also expressed appreciation to members of the public for providing timely and credible intelligence, urging citizens to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies as ongoing operations intensify efforts to dismantle terrorist and criminal networks across the North-West.