Sokoto: Troops rescue 22 kidnap victims as terrorists flee

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued 22 kidnap victims in separate counter-terrorism operations in Sokoto after mounting swift offensives that forced fleeing terrorists to abandon their captives.

The rescued victims comprised 17 passengers abducted along the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road and five farmers kidnapped from their farmlands in Isa Local Government Area.

The successful operations, conducted by troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West, on June 18, 2026, highlighted the military’s intensified efforts to combat terrorism and secure vulnerable communities across the North-West.

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Confirming the development, the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, said troops were alerted after terrorists barricaded the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road at Kura Mota Village and attacked two civilian vehicles.

According to him, the assailants abducted several passengers during the attack and killed one civilian before security forces arrived.

“Troops immediately mobilised to the scene and launched a coordinated pursuit operation supported by aerial surveillance,” Danja said.

“The swift response and sustained pressure mounted on the terrorists compelled them to abandon the kidnapped passengers and flee.”

He disclosed that 17 victims were rescued during the operation and handed over to relevant authorities for necessary assistance.

In a related development, troops responded to another terrorist attack at Chohi Village in Isa Local Government Area, where armed men attempted to abduct farmers working on their farms.

Danja said troops rapidly deployed to the area after receiving a distress call and tracked the terrorists along their escape route.

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

Following the operations, troops carried out confidence-building patrols in neighbouring communities, including Gidan Rana and Gidan Sale, to reassure residents and maintain a strong security presence.

Danja said the operations reflected the military’s resolve to deny terrorists freedom of movement and ensure the safety of communities.

“These successful rescue operations underscore the unwavering commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to protecting lives and property, safeguarding vulnerable communities and creating a secure environment for citizens to go about their lawful activities without fear,” he said.

The latest rescues add to a series of recent gains recorded by security forces in the North-West as efforts intensify to curb terrorism, banditry and kidnapping across the region.