Nigerian Troops Foil Kidnap Attempt, Rescue 22 Victims In Sokoto

Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West Operation, FANSAN YAMMA, (JTF NW OPFY), have successfully rescued 22 kidnapped victims in separate operations conducted in Sabon Birni and Isa Local Government Areas of Sokoto State, a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja has disclosed.

Aliyu Danja who is the
Media Information Officer
Join Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA said the gallantry was in further demonstration of the Army’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of the citizenry across their theatre of operations.

Giving details of the operations, Aliyu said, the first incident occurred on 18 June 2026, when troops responded to credible intelligence that terrorists had blocked the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road at Kura Mota Village and attacked 2 civilian vehicles, killed 1 person and abducted several passengers.

“Acting swiftly, troops immediately mobilised to the scene and launched a coordinated pursuit operation supported by aerial surveillance. The prompt response and sustained pressure mounted by the troops forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and flee. Consequently, 17 kidnapped passengers were successfully rescued and subsequently handed over to the appropriate authorities for necessary action”.

Continuing, Lt. Col. Aliyu said troops also responded to another terrorist attack at Chohi Village on 18 June 2026, where armed terrorists attempted to abduct farmers working on their farmlands.

“Upon receipt of the distress call, troops rapidly deployed to the area and pursued the fleeing terrorists along their withdrawal route. The aggressive pursuit led to the successful rescue of five kidnapped farmers, who were thereafter reunited with their families”.

To further entrench their presence, Lt. Col. Aliyu said troops conducted confidence-building patrols in surrounding communities, including Gidan Rana and Gidan Sale villages, to reassure residents, dominate the area and deny terrorists freedom of action.

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