Thr Nigerian Army personnel operating under Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued 22 abducted farmers and passengers after clashing with bandits in different operations in Sokoto State.
The successful operations followed swift military responses to intelligence reports and distress calls, leading to the rescue of victims who had been taken captive by armed terrorists days before they became free.
Military authorities, on Saturday, said the actions underscored ongoing efforts to safeguard communities and protect residents from criminal attacks.
According to a statement issued by the Information Officer of Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, thr troops acted promptly after receiving credible intelligence that terrorists had intercepted civilian vehicles and abducted passengers.
“The prompt response and sustained pressure mounted by the troops forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and flee,” the statement said.
Military authorities disclosed that 17 kidnapped passengers were rescued after troops launched a coordinated pursuit operation supported by aerial surveillance.
The victims were subsequently handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.
The statement added that troops also thwarted another abduction attempt involving farmers working on their farmlands.
Following a distress call, soldiers rapidly deployed to the area and pursued the attackers along their escape route.
“As a result of the aggressive pursuit, five kidnapped farmers were successfully rescued and reunited with their families,” Danja said.
Details from the military indicated that the first operation was carried out on June 18 after terrorists blocked the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road at Kura Mota Village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State and attacked two civilian vehicles.
One civilian was reportedly killed during the incident before the intervention of troops.
In a related operation conducted the same day, soldiers responded to an attack at Chohi Village in Isa Local Government Area, where armed terrorists attempted to abduct farmers working on their farmlands.
Furthermore, troops conducted confidence-building patrols in nearby communities, including Gidan Rana and Gidan Sale villages, to reassure residents, maintain a visible security presence and deny terrorists freedom of movement.
Military authorities said the latest rescues reflect the determination of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to protect lives and property, secure vulnerable communities and create an environment where residents can carry out their daily activities without fear.