RismadarVoice Reporters, May 30, 2026
Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 31 kidnapped victims and neutralised five terrorists during a series of coordinated operations across Zamfara and Katsina states.
The military disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba.
According to the statement, the 31 victims were rescued in Zamfara State during a joint air and ground operation targeting terrorist enclaves around the Bagega–Kawaye axis in Anka Local Government Area.
The military said the rescue followed a precision air interdiction by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, supported by a follow-up ground assault on terrorist hideouts located west of the Bagega Forest.
The rescued victims, who had reportedly spent several weeks in captivity, were identified as residents of Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum and Anka local government areas in Zamfara and Sokoto states.
The army said the victims have received medical attention and will be reunited with their families.
In a separate operation in Zamfara, troops engaged terrorists along the Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis, killing two of the suspects and destroying several camps used by the criminal elements.
Items recovered during the operation included locally fabricated rifles and four motorcycles believed to have been used by the terrorists.
Meanwhile, in Katsina State, troops intercepted suspected terrorists along the Ruwan Godiya axis and Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area while they were reportedly moving to carry out an attack.
The military said a fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, resulting in the death of three terrorists.
Recovered from the scene were motorcycles, ammunition and rifles. One of the slain suspects was later identified as a foot soldier of a notorious terrorist leader known as Muhammad Fulani.
The military reiterated its commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorist groups operating in the North-West region.
“Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains resolute in its commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens across the North-West region,” the statement said.
