Troops Foil Kidnap Attempts in Sokoto, Rescue 22 Victims

Troops of Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have foiled coordinated kidnapping attempts by terrorists in Sokoto State, rescuing 22 victims in separate operations.

The military said the successful operations were carried out in Sabon Birni and Isa Local Government Areas following intelligence reports and distress calls from affected communities.

In the first operation on June 18, troops responded to information that armed terrorists had mounted a roadblock along the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road at Kura Mota Village, where they attacked two commercial vehicles and abducted several passengers.

The attackers reportedly killed one civilian during the incident before escaping with their captives into nearby hideouts.

According to the military, troops immediately mobilised to the area and launched a coordinated pursuit operation supported by aerial surveillance.

The sustained pressure from security forces forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and retreat, allowing 17 kidnapped passengers to regain their freedom.

The rescued victims were handed over to relevant authorities for further assistance and reunification with their families.

In a related operation on the same day, troops responded to another attack at Chohi Village in Isa Local Government Area, where armed bandits attempted to abduct farmers working on their farmlands.

After receiving the distress call, troops swiftly deployed to the community and pursued the attackers along their escape route.

The military said the aggressive response compelled the criminals to release their captives, leading to the rescue of five farmers who were later reunited with their families.

Following the operations, troops conducted confidence-building patrols in neighbouring communities, including Gidan Rana and Gidan Sale villages, to reassure residents and strengthen security presence in the area.

The Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, said the successful missions demonstrated the commitment of security forces to protecting lives and property.

“These successful rescue operations underscore the unwavering commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to protecting the lives and property of the citizenry, safeguarding vulnerable communities and creating a secure environment for citizens,” Danja said.

The latest development comes amid intensified military operations against terrorist and bandit networks across the North-West, with security forces focusing on dismantling criminal hideouts, securing highways and restoring peace in affected communities.