By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
Troops of Sector 2 under the Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued 31 kidnapped victims, neutralised five terrorists, and destroyed several insurgent camps during coordinated operations across Zamfara and Katsina States.
The operations, which involved precision air strikes followed by ground clearance missions, targeted terrorist hideouts in the Anka, Maradun and surrounding forest areas of Zamfara State, as well as suspected transit routes used by armed groups in Katsina State.
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, confirmed the development in a statement on Thursday, saying the success was achieved through sustained intelligence-led offensives conducted by troops of Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
In Zamfara State, troops rescued 31 kidnapped persons in the Bagega–Kawaye axis of Anka Local Government Area following a combined air interdiction and ground assault west of Bagega Forest. The victims, abducted for several weeks, were from communities in Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum, and Anka LGAs of Zamfara and Sokoto States. They have been given medical care and are awaiting reunion with their families.
In another operation in Zamfara, troops engaged terrorists in the Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis, killing two insurgents and destroying identified camps.
Several locally fabricated weapons and four motorcycles were recovered from the scene.
In Katsina State, troops intercepted armed terrorists at Ruwan Godiya axis and along Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area, acting on intelligence that the group was preparing for an imminent attack.
A gun battle ensued, resulting in the killing of three terrorists. One of those neutralised was identified as a member of a gang linked to a notorious kingpin, Muhammad Fulani. Weapons and motorcycles were also recovered.
Military authorities said Operation FANSAN YAMMA will continue sustained operations aimed at clearing remaining terrorist enclaves and restoring lasting security across Zamfara and Katsina States.
