Soldiers Rescue 31 Abducted Victims, Kill 5 Terrorists in Zamfara, Katsina

Troops of Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA of the Nigerian Army, have rescued thirty-one kidnapped victims, neutralising five terrorists and dismantling several terrorists camps in a series of coordinated operations across Zamfara and Katsina States.

Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army/ Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, disclosed this in a statement on May 29, 2026.

According to the statement, the 31 abducting victims were rescued around the Bagega–Kawaye axis in Anka LGA, in Zamfara State.

The kidnapped victims were rescued from captivity following a precision air interdiction conducted by the air component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and a follow on ground operation on terrorist enclaves west of Bagega Forest.

The rescued individuals, who had spent several weeks in captivity, were identified as indigenes of Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum, and Anka LGAs across Zamfara and Sokoto States. The victims were provided medical support and will be reunited with their respective families.

Osoba said that troops also neutralized 2 terrorists and destroyed identified terrorist camps in a separate operation in Zamfara, after they made contact with terrorists in Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis where they also recovered several fabricated rifles and 4 motorcycles used by the criminals.

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He said that in Katsina State, troops intercepted terrorists in transit at Ruwan Godiya axis and Sayaya Road in Matazu LGA who are in transit for an imminent attack.

According to him, following a fierce firefight, troops neutralized 3 terrorists recovered motorcycles and some quantities of ammunition.

“One of the terrorists neutralized was later identified as a foot soldier of the notorious terrorist kingpin, Muhammad Fulani. Rifles and motorcycles were recovered from the 2 encounters”, he added.

He said that operation FANSAN YAMMA remained resolute in its commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens across the North West region.