Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued six kidnap victims who were abandoned by fleeing terrorists during a clearance operation in Katsina State, marking another significant victory in the sustained campaign against banditry and terrorism in Nigeria's North-West region. The rescue operation, carried out by troops of the 17 Brigade under Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, took place on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Unguwan Doka in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State following sustained military pressure on terrorist enclaves in the area.
The rescued victims, who include four women and two children, have been identified as Mrs. Umaima Isiaku, 30; Amina Isiaku, 25; Fatima Saidu, 22; Huzaima Nasiru, 16; one-year-old Usman Surajo; and 18-month-old Dauda Isiaku. The victims, all indigenes of Bilbis village in Zamfara State, were abducted by armed terrorists on March 11, 2026, along the Tsafe–Bilbis Road in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, according to security sources.
During preliminary interrogation, the victims told troops that they had been held in captivity for more than three months before their captors fled in panic as troops intensified offensive operations in the area. The terrorists abandoned the victims in their hideout as they escaped from the advancing military forces, leaving the captives behind to be discovered and rescued by the troops.
Military authorities said the rescue forms part of ongoing efforts by Operation FANSAN YAMMA to weaken terrorist networks and flush out criminal elements operating across the North-West. The operation is one of several recent offensives targeting terrorist enclaves, especially in areas affected by persistent attacks, kidnappings, and banditry. Security operatives say coordinated offensives in Katsina, Zamfara, and neighbouring states have continued to put pressure on armed groups responsible for attacks in the region.
The rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention and humanitarian support. Military sources confirmed that the victims are receiving necessary care, while efforts are ongoing to reunite them with their families. The latest rescue is part of the sustained operations by Operation FANSAN YAMMA aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and securing communities across the North-West.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA, a joint military operation involving ground and air components, has been at the forefront of the fight against banditry and terrorism in the North-West. The operation has recorded several successes in recent weeks, including the rescue of other kidnapped victims, the neutralisation of terrorists, and the destruction of terrorist camps. The rescue of the six victims is expected to boost the morale of troops and reassure residents of the region that the military is committed to their safety and security.
The abduction of the victims in March 2026 along the Tsafe-Bilbis Road highlighted the security challenges facing travellers and residents in Zamfara State. The road has been a hotspot for kidnappings and bandit attacks, with many victims taken into captivity and held for ransom. The rescue of the six victims after more than three months in captivity is a testament to the resilience of the victims and the determination of the military to secure their release.
As the victims begin the process of recovery and reunification with their families, the military has urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations. The military also reiterated its commitment to sustaining the momentum of its offensive against terrorists and bandits until peace and security are fully restored in the North-West.
The successful rescue of the six victims is a significant milestone in the fight against insecurity in Nigeria's North-West. It demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led military operations and the importance of sustained pressure on terrorist groups. The military has assured the public that it will continue to intensify its operations to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments