Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have successfully rescued seven kidnapped victims in Katsina state. The rescue operation took place along the Daye–Malumfashi road in Danmusa local government area of Katsina State. According to the Nigerian Army, troops responded to a distress call on the evening of 21 September 2026, indicating an attack on a commercial vehicle en route from Kaduna to Katsina. The swift response forced the perpetrators to abandon their captives and flee the scene.
The seven victims, comprising six female students from the Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, and one male commercial driver, were rescued unhurt. Following preliminary security profiling and necessary medical evaluations, the rescued individuals were safely handed over to designated officials. This was done to facilitate their safe reunion with their families and school authorities. The successful rescue operation highlights the efforts of the Nigerian Army in securing the region.
In a related development, troops of Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA foiled a terror attack in Sokoto State. The troops neutralized the threat and recovered a massive herd of rustled cattle in Kebbe local government area (LGA). Credible intelligence had revealed that a group of armed terrorists had infiltrated the Asarara Kaura community in Kebbe LGA, terrorizing locals and forcibly rustling a significant number of livestock.
Acting on the intelligence, troops rapidly mobilized to cut off the terrorists from escaping with the livestock. The troops intercepted the fleeing terrorists along the Tambuwal–Gadaichi–Gummi Road axis. The terrorists engaged the troops in a gun fight in a violent attempt to escape but were overpowered by the troops' overwhelming firepower and tactical superiority.
The terrorists fled into the surrounding bushes with varying degrees of gunshot wounds, abandoning the entire herd of rustled cattle. The successful intervention brought relief and jubilation to the residents of the Asarara Kaura community and surrounding areas. The community members turned out in large numbers to applaud the troops for their bravery and prompt response in safeguarding their lives and livelihood.
To ensure transparency and the seamless restoration of property to the rightful owners, the recovered livestock are currently in secure military custody. Arrangements have been finalized for a formal handover of the cattle to the Chairman of the Sokoto State Committee on the Recovery of Rustled Animals. The Chairman will oversee the verification and return process to the affected community members.
The Nigerian Army's successful operations in Katsina and Sokoto states demonstrate their commitment to securing the region and protecting the local communities. The rescue of the kidnapped victims and the recovery of the rustled cattle have brought relief to the affected families and communities. The troops' bravery and prompt response have been commended by the local residents.
Key points
- Nigerian troops rescue 7 kidnapped victims in Katsina state.
- Troops recover large herd of rustled cattle in Sokoto state.
- Operations demonstrate Nigerian Army's commitment to securing the region.
