Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Troops of the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, operating under Sector 2, have neutralized two suspected terrorists in Kebbi State and rescued 62 kidnapped victims from a forest hideout in Zamfara State, the Nigerian Army announced in a statement on Wednesday. The operations, conducted in close collaboration with allied security forces and local vigilante groups, reflect a sustained push to dismantle terrorist networks, restore security and protect vulnerable communities in the northwest region.
In a communique signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 8 Division Nigerian Army / Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the first operation in Kebbi State followed credible, actionable intelligence indicating the movements of members of the Lakurawa Terrorist Group along the border between Augie Local Government Area (Kebbi) and Binji Local Government Area (Sokoto).
Acting on the intelligence, troops laid an ambush in Kerani Village, engaging the insurgents in a planned operation that resulted in the elimination of two suspected terrorists. Authorities recovered two motorcycles used by the fighters, noting that the vehicles were padded with thick blankets and equipped with hand tyre pumps, modifications commonly used to facilitate long‑range movements across rugged terrain. Both suspects were reportedly clad in camouflage uniforms, suggesting a level of organisation and preparation.
The statement highlighted that the success of the ambush was anchored in the quality of intelligence received and the operational readiness of the troops, as well as the support of local vigilantes who provided critical ground information.
In a separate but coordinated operation in Zamfara State, troops focused on Munhaye Forest, a known bandit hideout linked to the notorious leader Kachalla Alti. Following reliable intelligence that captives were being held in the forest enclave, the military launched an aggressive clearance mission.
The offensive resulted in the successful rescue of 62 kidnapped victims, all of whom are now in the safe custody of security and welfare officials. According to the army, efforts are underway to reunite the freed hostages with their families and ensure they receive necessary profiling, medical care and psychosocial support after their ordeal.
These dual operations underscore the relentless campaign by Operation FANSAN YAMMA and its partners to degrade bandit and terrorist networks that have long terrorised communities across the northwest. By combining intelligence‑driven tactics, joint deployments, and community cooperation, security forces aim to deny adversaries safe havens and disrupt their capacity to kidnap, extort and perpetrate violence.
Local community leaders in both Kebbi and Zamfara States have welcomed the developments, describing the rescue of hostages and neutralisation of terrorists as significant victories for residents who have endured years of insecurity, displacement and economic disruption. Many expressed optimism that continued pressure on criminal elements would lead to improved safety and the gradual restoration of normal life in affected areas.
Security analysts note that such operations demonstrate the evolving capability of Nigerian forces to conduct coordinated, multi‑theatre missions that integrate actionable intelligence with rapid deployment. These efforts, they argue, are vital in the ongoing fight against banditry and insurgency, particularly in forested and border regions where armed groups have historically found refuge.
Lieutenant Colonel Osoba emphasised that the successes achieved so far are a testament to the professionalism and dedication of personnel involved in Operation FANSAN YAMMA, as well as the importance of collaboration with allied security agencies and local vigilante outfits whose local knowledge and support continue to enhance operational impact.
“We remain committed to safeguarding lives and restoring peace across the Northwest,” the statement said, adding that troops will sustain pressure on remnants of terrorist and bandit groups until they are decisively dismantled.
The freed hostages are currently being processed by relevant authorities, and efforts are expected to continue to ensure they are safely reunited with their loved ones.
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