Troops Foil Terrorists Kidnap Attempt, Rescue 22 Victims In Sokoto

Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA (JTF NW OPFY), have rescued 22 kidnapped victims in separate operations conducted in Sabon Birni and Isa Local Government Areas of Sokoto State.

A statement by the Media Information Officer Join Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, on Saturday, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the first incident occurred on 18 June 2026, when troops responded to credible intelligence that terrorists had blocked the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road at Kura Mota Village and attacked two civilian vehicles, abducting several passengers.

According to the statement, sadly, one civilian was killed by the terrorists during the attack.

Acting swiftly, troops said they immediately mobilised to the scene and launched a coordinated pursuit operation supported by aerial surveillance.

“The prompt response and sustained pressure mounted by the troops forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and flee. Consequently, 17 kidnapped passengers were successfully rescued and subsequently handed over to the appropriate authorities for necessary action”, the statement said.

In a related development, troops said they responded to another terrorist attack at Chohi Village on 18 June 2026, where armed terrorists attempted to abduct farmers working on their farmlands.

“Upon receipt of the distress call, troops rapidly deployed to the area and pursued the fleeing terrorists along their withdrawal route.

“The aggressive pursuit led to the successful rescue of five kidnapped farmers, who were thereafter reunited with their families.

“Following the rescue operation, troops conducted confidence-building patrols in surrounding communities, including Gidan Rana and Gidan Sale villages, to reassure residents, dominate the area, and deny terrorists freedom of action.

“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 to pursue their lawful daily activities without fear”, the statement added.