Troops of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma, have conducted successful operations in Sokoto State, rescuing 23 kidnapped victims and arresting four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group. The operations, which took place on Sunday, also foiled attempted terrorist attacks in Wurno, Sabon Birni, and Isa Local Government Areas.
According to Lt-Col. Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer of JTF North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma, troops responded to a terrorist attack on Sabon Gari in Wurno LGA, where terrorists invaded the community and opened sporadic fire. The troops engaged the attackers, forcing them to withdraw, and rescued six kidnapped victims. One civilian who sustained a gunshot wound during the attack was evacuated to a medical facility for treatment.
In another operation, troops responded to intelligence about an attempted movement by terrorists along the Sabon Birni–Takatsaba Road. The troops established an ambush and engaged the terrorists on sighting, forcing them to flee in disarray. The troops dominated the general area to deny the terrorists freedom of action.
The military spokesman further disclosed that troops rescued 17 kidnapped civilians after responding to a distress call concerning terrorist activities along the Isa–Kwanar Isa–Shinkafi Road in Isa LGA. The troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them, forcing them to withdraw. One of the rescued victims, who sustained a fracture, was immediately evacuated to the General Hospital, Isa, for medical attention.
In a separate operation, troops arrested four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group in Illela LGA following intelligence on their movement while allegedly driving a herd of rustled cattle from Sarma Village towards Illela. The troops established a snap checkpoint, leading to the arrest of the four suspects and recovery of six cows.
The suspects and recovered livestock are currently in military custody for further investigation and necessary action. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the group. The JTF spokesman said the latest operations demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence-driven and proactive military operations aimed at disrupting terrorist activities and rescuing kidnapped civilians.
The troops will continue to sustain pressure on terrorist elements and protect communities within their area of responsibility. The operations are part of the ongoing efforts to enhance security and stability in Sokoto State and the region.
Key points
- Troops rescue 23 kidnapped victims in separate operations across Sokoto State.
- Four suspected Lakurawa terrorist group members arrested in Illela LGA.
- Operations foiled attempted terrorist attacks in Wurno, Sabon Birni, and Isa Local Government Areas.
