By Fatima Saka
Troops of the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA have recorded major operational successes, rescuing kidnapped victims, foiling terrorist attacks, and arresting suspected collaborators in coordinated operations across Kaduna and Zamfara States.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the military disclosed that the intelligence-driven operations, carried out by troops of Sector 1 and Sector 2, underscore ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist and bandit networks in the region.
On June 18, 2026, troops of Sector 1 responded to a distress call on the movement of armed bandits in a forest in Kerawa, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The swift response led to the rescue of three victims—Mrs. Bilkisu Hayatu (38), Mrs. Habibah Sadisu (30), and a one-year-old child, Abdulmutallib Sadisu—who had been abandoned by fleeing criminals.
The victims, who were kidnapped on May 17 from Kajenjere Tami Village in Birnin Yero, were reportedly being moved to a terrorist hideout in Birnin Gwari before their rescue. They were immediately taken to a primary healthcare facility in Kadage for treatment.
In a separate operation on June 20, troops of Sector 2, in collaboration with other security agencies, foiled a planned terrorist attack on Gamdanda Village in Gummi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Acting on credible intelligence, the troops laid an ambush and engaged the terrorists, forcing them to retreat under heavy fire.
Subsequent exploitation of the area led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition, eight motorcycles, and food supplies, dealing a significant blow to the terrorists’ logistics.
Further operations by Sector 2, in conjunction with the Defence Intelligence Agency, led to the arrest of four suspected violent extremists and informants in Zamfara State. Security forces also apprehended another suspect, identified as Muhammad Mamman, whose inconsistent statements raised suspicion. All suspects are currently under investigation.
In Maru Local Government Area, troops successfully repelled another terrorist attack following reinforcement from the 1 Brigade. The military reported that the terrorists suffered heavy casualties, as indicated by blood trails along their escape routes. However, three soldiers lost their lives during the encounter.
Additionally, troops thwarted another attempted attack in Bakura Local Government Area after intercepting intelligence on terrorist movements towards Tudun Barade and Badamma villages. The aggressive patrol forced the attackers to retreat, ensuring the safety of residents.
The Theatre Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA commended the troops for their bravery and professionalism, while reaffirming the military’s commitment to sustained offensives against criminal elements in the North West.
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He also paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, describing them as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation, and urged the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.
The military reiterated its determination to restore lasting peace and security across the region.
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