Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have rescued 31 kidnap victims and destroyed several terrorist camps during coordinated operations across Zamfara and Katsina states.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that the military said five terrorists were killed during the operations, while weapons, ammunition and motorcycles were recovered.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba.
Osoba said the rescue operation was carried out by troops of Sector 2 Operation Fansan Yamma around the Bagega-Kawaye axis in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
According to him, the operation followed a precision air interdiction by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma and a follow-up ground assault on terrorist enclaves west of Bagega Forest.
“The kidnapped victims were rescued from captivity following a precision air interdiction conducted by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and a follow-on ground operation on terrorist enclaves west of Bagega Forest,” he said.
The military said the rescued victims had spent several weeks in captivity.
They were identified as natives of Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum and Anka local government areas across Zamfara and Sokoto states.
Osoba said they had received medical attention and would soon be reunited with their families.
Terrorist Camps Destroyed
In a separate operation in Zamfara, troops engaged terrorists along the Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis. Osoba said two terrorists were killed and several camps destroyed during the operation.
He added that fabricated rifles and four motorcycles allegedly used by the terrorists were recovered.
In Katsina State, troops intercepted suspected terrorists at the Ruwan Godiya axis and Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area.
The suspects were reportedly on their way to launch an attack when troops engaged them.
“Troops intercepted terrorists in transit for an imminent attack. Following a fierce firefight, troops neutralised three terrorists and recovered motorcycles and quantities of ammunition,” Osoba stated.
The military said one of the terrorists killed was identified as a foot soldier loyal to the notorious terrorist kingpin, Muhammad Fulani.
Osoba reaffirmed the commitment of Operation Fansan Yamma to sustaining offensive operations against criminal elements across the North-West.
“Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains resolute in its commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens across the North West region,” he added.