Katsina, Kebbi: Troops Rescue 31 Victims, Arrest Two Suspected Terrorists

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, have rescued 31 kidnapped victims, neutralised two terrorists and arrested two suspected terrorists in separate operations in Katsina and Kebbi States.

The operations took place on September 14 and 15, according to a statement issued on September 16 by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West) Operation Fansan Yamma.

On September 14, in Katsina State, troops of Sector 2, following reports of the abduction of civilians from Unguwan Daudu and Unguwan Chibauna communities in Funtua Local Government Area, swiftly mobilised to intercept the terrorists.

Troops launched a hot pursuit and engaged the terrorists in a gun battle, leading to the rescue of 10 kidnapped victims, comprising three males and seven females, including an infant. The rescued victims are in troops’ custody for further action.

Similarly, on September 14, in Kebbi State, troops of Sector 2 responded to a distress call following the abduction of civilians from Fafala Village in Kangiwa Local Government Area.

Acting on credible intelligence, troops conducted a fighting patrol towards Fafala and Dandikwa, where they made contact with the terrorists and engaged them in a heavy exchange of fire, forcing the terrorists to withdraw in disarray. Subsequent exploitation led to the rescue of 21 kidnapped victims, who were successfully reunited with their families.

On September 15, in Katsina State, troops of Sector 2, acting on credible intelligence regarding plans by terrorists to attack communities within Matazu and Kankara Local Government Areas, mobilised towards the identified hideout.

Troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them with superior firepower, neutralising two terrorists, including Abbah Alhassan, a known terrorist kingpin. Other terrorists fled into the surrounding bush.

Exploitation of the area led to the recovery of 10 rounds of ammunition, one motorcycle, one cutlass, camouflage clothing and Indian hemp, among other items.

Also, on September 15, troops of Sector 2 arrested two suspected terrorists in the Yantumaki general area of Dan Musa Local Government Area, Katsina State. Preliminary interrogation revealed that the suspects were associated with a terrorist kingpin known as Mannori. The suspects have been taken into custody for further investigation.

The military said the successes underscore the continued efforts of Operation Fansan Yamma to rescue victims, disrupt terrorist networks, and deny terrorists freedom of action across the Joint Operations Area.