Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have successfully rescued 11 kidnapped victims in two separate operations conducted on October 30 and 31, 2026, in Kebbi State. The operations followed encounters between the troops and suspected bandits and terrorists in the area. According to Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, spokesman for the 8 Division in Sokoto, the military operations were launched after receiving a distress call reporting armed bandits blocking a road leading to Ribah town.
The first operation resulted in the rescue of seven kidnapped victims after troops engaged the bandits in a gun battle, forcing them to flee and abandon their captives. The victims were identified as Sa'adu Bala, Dantani Yahyi, Nura Musa, Nasiru Muhammad, Abdulakeem Abubakar, Abdulahi Maikudi, and Zaki Gom. The rescued individuals have been reunited with their families. The military operation was a response to a distress call about armed bandits attempting to invade the community.
In a separate operation around Wasagu, troops conducting routine patrols came under attack by suspected terrorists. The troops repelled the attack, forcing the assailants to abandon four kidnapped victims. These victims had been abducted from their farms in Wasagu village before the troops' intervention. The four rescued victims were identified as Lawali Ali, Samaila Shuaibu, Kasimu Shuaibu, and Aliyu Bala, all residents of Wasagu village.
The successful rescue operations demonstrate the military's commitment to sustaining efforts against bandits and other criminal elements in the region. Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba reaffirmed the military's dedication to protecting lives and property. The troops remain vigilant and committed to responding promptly to security threats in the area.
The kidnapped victims were rescued from two separate locations in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area. The first incident involved bandits blocking a road and attempting to invade a community, while the second involved suspected terrorists abducting victims from their farms. The military's swift response in both cases led to the successful rescue of all 11 kidnapped victims.
The rescued victims have been handed over to their families and the community head, respectively. The military's efforts to protect the communities and ensure the safety of residents have been commended. The incidents highlight the ongoing security challenges in the region and the need for sustained military operations to combat banditry and terrorism.
The military has assured residents of continued efforts to protect lives and property. The commitment to safety and security is a top priority, and the troops will continue to respond promptly to security threats. The successful rescue operations are a testament to the military's dedication to protecting the communities in the region.
Key points
- 11 kidnapped victims were rescued in two separate operations in Kebbi State.
- The military operations were conducted on October 30 and 31, 2026.
- The rescued victims have been reunited with their families and the community head.
