Nigerian troops have conducted successful operations in Sokoto State, rescuing 23 kidnapped victims and arresting four suspected terrorists. The operations, which took place on September 20, 2026, were carried out by the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA. The troops responded to distress calls and engaged terrorists in gunbattles, forcing them to withdraw from the areas.
In one of the operations, troops responded to a distress call about a terrorist attack in Sabon Gari, Wurno Local Government Area of Sokoto. The attackers had invaded the community, shooting sporadically and forcing residents to flee. The troops engaged the terrorists and forced them to withdraw, rescuing six kidnapped victims in the aftermath of the gunbattle. A civilian who sustained a gunshot injury during the attack was evacuated to a medical facility for treatment.
In a separate operation along the Sabon Birni–Takatsaba Road in Sabon Birni Local Government Area, troops ambushed terrorists who were attempting to cross the Chabe Biyu axis. The troops engaged the attackers in a gunbattle, forcing them to flee in disarray. The troops then dominated the area to deny the terrorists freedom of movement.
Troops also rescued 17 kidnapped victims in response to a distress call about terrorist activities along the Isa–Kwanar Isa–Shinkafi Road in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The kidnapped victims were rescued after the troops engaged the attackers in a gun duel and forced them to withdraw. One of the rescued victims sustained a fracture and was evacuated to the General Hospital, Isa, for medical attention.
In another operation, troops arrested four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group during an intelligence-driven operation in Illela Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The suspects were moving a herd of rustled cattle from Sarma Village towards Illela when they were intercepted by troops. Six cows were recovered during the operation.
The arrested suspects and recovered livestock have been taken into military custody for further investigation and necessary action. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the group. The spokesperson for the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, said the operations demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-led and proactive military engagements.
The operations demonstrate the commitment of troops to sustaining pressure on terrorist elements and protecting communities within the area of responsibility. The troops remain committed to disrupting terrorist activities, rescuing kidnapped civilians, and restricting the movement of criminal elements across the Joint Operations Area.
Key points
- 23 kidnapped victims were rescued in separate operations across Sokoto State.
- Four suspected terrorists were arrested during an intelligence-driven operation in Illela Local Government Area.
- Six rustled cattle were recovered during the operations.
