Troops Kill Terrorists, Rescue Kidnap Victims in Zamfara Operations

Troops of Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have recorded fresh operational successes in Zamfara State, neutralising terrorists, rescuing kidnapped victims and recovering a cache of weapons and logistics during coordinated security operations.

The Nigerian Army disclosed that the successes were achieved during ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and restore peace across communities in Zurmi and Shinkafi Local Government Areas of the state.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army and Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, troops on fighting patrol made contact with suspected terrorists in Yanbuki District of Zurmi Local Government Area on June 12.

The patrol covered Birnin Saba, Yanbuki and Sabon Garin Daudawa communities.

During the ensuing gun battle, troops neutralised one terrorist and recovered weapons and equipment, including rifles, four magazines loaded with ammunition, two motorcycles, seven mobile phones and two MP3 players.

Security personnel also recovered a woodland camouflage trouser and an inner vest believed to have been abandoned by fleeing terrorists.

The statement added that as troops advanced towards Sabon Garin Daudawa, the terrorists deserted their hideout before the arrival of security forces.

The troops subsequently cleared and destroyed the enclave to prevent its future use as a criminal base.

In a separate operation along the Shinkafi-Moriki axis, troops successfully ambushed another group of terrorists during a routine patrol.

One terrorist was neutralised during the encounter, while soldiers recovered an AK-47 rifle, five magazines, a Baofeng communication radio, two motorcycles and assorted charms.

The Army also confirmed the rescue of three kidnapped victims during the operations.

According to the statement, the victims are currently receiving appropriate care and support while arrangements are being made to reunite them with their families.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against terrorist and bandit groups across Zamfara State and the wider North-West region.

It also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible and timely information capable of assisting ongoing counterterrorism operations.

Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains one of the major military operations targeting armed banditry, kidnapping and terrorist activities across northwestern Nigeria.