Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma (JTF NW OPFY), have achieved significant operational successes in Sokoto State, rescuing 23 kidnapped victims and foiling terrorist attacks. According to a statement by Lt. Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer Joint Task Force North-west OPFY, the operations were conducted across Sokoto State on September 20, 2026. The troops responded to a terrorist attack on Sabon Gari in Wurno Local Government Area, where civilians were fleeing due to sporadic gunfire.
The troops engaged the terrorists, forcing them to withdraw from the area, and rescued six kidnapped victims. One civilian who sustained a gunshot wound during the attack was evacuated to a medical facility for treatment. In a separate operation, troops responded to intelligence indicating terrorists' attempt to cross the Sabon Birni–Takatsaba Road around Chabe Biyu in Sabon Birni Local Government Area. The troops laid an ambush, engaged the terrorists with firepower, and forced them to flee in disarray.
On the same day, troops of Sector 2 responded to a distress call on terrorist activities along the Isa–Kwanar Isa–Shinkafi Road in Isa Local Government Area. The troops made contact with the terrorists, engaged them with firepower, and forced them to withdraw in disarray. Exploitation of the area led to the rescue of 17 kidnapped civilians. One of the rescued victims, who sustained a fracture, was immediately evacuated to the General Hospital, Isa, for medical attention.
In another operation, troops acted on information regarding the movement of suspected Lakurawa members driving a herd of rustled cattle from Sarma Village towards Illela. The troops established a snap checkpoint along the suspected movement route and arrested four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group. The operation resulted in the recovery of six cows, which are currently in military custody for further investigation and necessary action.
The suspects and recovered livestock are being held for further investigation and necessary action, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the group. The latest successes underscore the effectiveness of the intelligence-driven and proactive operations being conducted by troops of Sector 2 OPFY to disrupt terrorist activities and rescue kidnapped civilians.
The troops remain resolute in sustaining pressure on terrorist elements and protecting communities within their area of responsibility. The operations demonstrate the commitment of the Nigerian military to enhancing security and stability in the region. The rescued victims are receiving medical attention, and the military is working to ensure their safe return to their families.
The military's efforts to combat terrorism and banditry in the region have been yielding positive results, with several operations conducted in recent months. The troops' proactive approach has denied terrorists freedom of movement and action, and the military remains committed to protecting the region from terrorist threats.
Key points
- The OPFY troops rescued 23 kidnapped victims and foiled multiple terrorist attacks in Sokoto State on September 20, 2026.
- Four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group were arrested, and six cows were recovered during the operations.
- The troops remain committed to sustaining pressure on terrorist elements and protecting communities within their area of responsibility.
