KAURA NAMODA, NIGERIA — Troops of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have successfully foiled an attempted mass abduction by terrorists in Zamfara State, rescuing nine civilians, including an infant .
The operation unfolded on Sunday, August 16, 2026, in Unguwar Rogo Village, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, when troops received a distress call that terrorists had infiltrated the community and attacked civilians travelling along a local route .
According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer of JTF North-West, the attack was believed to have been orchestrated by a notorious terrorist kingpin identified as Mallam Shuaibu . Preliminary intelligence suggested the assault was carried out in retaliation for the recent arrest of suspected collaborators linked to the terrorist network .
“The suspects had earlier been intercepted by troops while attempting to procure motorcycles and Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in support of the terrorists’ activities,” Danja explained . In a calculated response, the terrorists concealed themselves within a millet farm along the route and opened fire on passing vehicles, causing some drivers to lose control and veer off the road in what appeared to be an attempt to abduct the occupants .
Responding swiftly to the distress call, troops of Sector 2 moved to the area and decisively engaged the terrorists, forcing them to abandon their mission and retreat into the surrounding forest . Following the engagement, troops successfully rescued nine civilians, including a five-month-old infant .
Two women who sustained gunshot wounds during the assault were promptly evacuated for medical attention and are currently receiving treatment . The rescued victims have been taken to a secure location for debriefing and medical evaluation .
Danja reaffirmed the commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to safeguarding civilians and restricting the activities of terrorists across the North-West region . “Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains resolute in its determination to deny terrorists and other criminal elements the freedom to attack innocent citizens,” he stated .
The successful operation underscores the military’s intensified efforts to combat the persistent security challenges that have plagued Zamfara State and the broader North-West, where armed banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism continue to threaten civilian populations . The Joint Task Force reiterated that it would continue to sustain pressure on terrorist networks while taking all necessary measures to protect lives and restore lasting peace and security in the region .
As security forces maintain their offensive operations, residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies to prevent further attacks. The rescue of the nine civilians has been hailed as a significant victory in the ongoing battle against criminal elements, offering a glimmer of hope for communities that have endured repeated attacks and violent raids in recent years .
