The Nigerian Army has rescued 18 residents abducted by terrorists and arrested two members of the banditry group, Lakurawa, during counter-terrorism operations in Zamfara State.
Troops also apprehended two Lakurawa members identified as Abdul Bouye and Mohammed Jamilu, both nationals of the Niger Republic, as well as one Aminu Dayau alongside his children, while the military said efforts were continuing to locate other victims who remained in captivity.
Preliminary intelligence linked the suspects to terrorist activities around Zurmi, including providing information and technical support for the placement of improvised explosive devices along the Zurmi-MSR route.
The suspects are currently in military custody and are expected to be handed over to the Department of State Services for further investigation and necessary action.
It was gathered on Tuesday that the operations were conducted yesterday by troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, in different parts of Zamfara State.
According to the military, troops initially moved after receiving a distress call about the presence of terrorists near Sabon Gari village in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area.
The troops engaged the terrorists upon arrival, leading to the rescue of the 18 abducted residents.
However, some of the terrorists escaped across a river with other captives before the troops could reach them.
In a separate operation, troops confronted terrorists who attempted to ambush them while they were conducting a special operation following intelligence about terrorists moving with rustled cattle.
The military said the troops engaged the attackers and forced them to withdraw.
Two tyres of a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle were damaged by fragments from a rocket-propelled grenade during the exchange.
No military personnel were killed or injured in the encounter, according to the Army.
Troops later returned to base with the damaged vehicle, while further operations in the area were scheduled after visibility improved.
The Army said its personnel had intensified efforts to locate the remaining victims and pursue the fleeing terrorists.