Nigerian troops from Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have conducted successful operations across Sokoto State, rescuing 23 kidnapped victims and arresting four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group. The operations took place on September 20, 2026, in Wurno, Sabon Birni, and Isa Local Government Areas. The troops responded to terrorist activities, engaged the attackers, and successfully rescued civilians held in captivity.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the successes were a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-driven and proactive military operations in the North-West. The troops swiftly responded to a terrorist attack on Sabon Gari community in Wurno Local Government Area, where armed terrorists invaded the area and opened fire, forcing residents to flee.
The troops engaged the attackers and compelled them to retreat, while six kidnapped victims were rescued. A civilian who sustained a gunshot wound during the attack was evacuated to a medical facility for treatment. The prompt response and engagement by the troops likely prevented further harm to the community. The operations demonstrate the military's commitment to protecting civilians and countering terrorist activities.
In another operation, troops acted on intelligence indicating an attempt by terrorists to cross the Sabon Birni–Takatsaba Road near Chabe Biyu in Sabon Birni Local Government Area. The troops laid an ambush along the suspected route and engaged the terrorists on sight, forcing them to flee. Troops subsequently dominated the area to prevent the terrorists from regrouping.
The troops also responded to a distress call on terrorist activities along the Isa–Kwanar Isa–Shinkafi Road in Isa Local Government Area. Following a firefight, the terrorists withdrew, while troops rescued 17 kidnapped civilians. One of the rescued victims, who sustained a fracture, was evacuated to the General Hospital in Isa for medical attention. The successful rescue operations highlight the military's capability to respond to distress calls and protect civilians.
In a separate intelligence-led operation in Illela Local Government Area, troops intercepted suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group who were allegedly moving rustled cattle from Sarma Village towards Illela. The operation led to the arrest of four suspects and the recovery of six cows. Military authorities said the suspects and recovered livestock are in custody for further investigation.
The latest operational gains underscore the commitment of troops to sustaining pressure on terrorist elements, rescuing kidnapped civilians, and protecting communities across the Joint Operations Area. The successful operations demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-driven military operations in countering terrorist activities and protecting civilians.
Key points
- Troops rescued 23 kidnapped victims in separate operations across Sokoto State.
- Four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group were arrested in an intelligence-led operation.
- The operations demonstrate the military's commitment to protecting civilians and countering terrorist activities in the North-West region.
