By: Chioma Vivian Jame
The Joint Task Force North West under Operation FANSAN YAMMA has recorded another significant operational success in its ongoing campaign against terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities across the North West region.
In a series of intelligence-driven operations conducted across Faskari, Bakori, and Danmusa Local Government Areas of Katsina State, troops successfully rescued nine kidnapped victims, recovered 56 rustled livestock, and arrested a suspected terrorist, further demonstrating the military’s resolve to restore peace and security in the region.
According to the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, troops of Sector 2, while conducting a fighting patrol in Faskari Local Government Area, rescued nine kidnapped victims comprising three women, four men, and two children.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims had been abducted by terrorists on July 9, 2026, along the Tsafe–Kuchere Road in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State. In a remarkable turn of events, the victims reportedly escaped from their captors’ hideout after the terrorists fell asleep. They were later intercepted and safely rescued by troops during routine patrol operations.
The rescued individuals are currently receiving necessary support and undergoing processing procedures ahead of their reunification with their families.
In another successful operation, troops acting on credible intelligence responded swiftly to reports of livestock rustling in Bakori Local Government Area. Upon sighting the advancing troops, the terrorists opened fire in an attempt to evade capture. However, the troops responded decisively with superior firepower, forcing the criminals to abandon their mission and flee into the surrounding bush.
The operation resulted in the recovery of 56 rustled livestock, consisting of four cattle and 52 sheep. The recovered animals are being secured pending formal handover to the appropriate local authorities and rightful owners.
Further highlighting the effectiveness of ongoing intelligence-led operations, troops arrested a suspected terrorist during routine security activities in Danmusa Local Government Area. Preliminary examination of items recovered from the suspect revealed materials believed to be associated with terrorist operations. The suspect remains in military custody and is assisting investigators as efforts continue to dismantle criminal networks operating within the region.
Commending the troops for their courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment, the Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, reiterated the military’s determination to sustain pressure on terrorist and criminal elements. He emphasized that ongoing collaboration with other security agencies and support from law-abiding citizens remain critical to achieving lasting peace and security across the North West.
The latest successes underscore the growing impact of intelligence-driven military operations and reinforce confidence in ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and livestock rustling. As Operation FANSAN YAMMA continues to intensify its offensive, residents remain hopeful that the region will experience greater stability, safety, and economic recovery.
