In a significant operation, troops from the Joint Task Force North West, known as Operation Fansan Yamma, successfully rescued 27 individuals who had been kidnapped in Katsina State. The rescue occurred following a gun battle with terrorists in the Sabuwa Local Government Area on October 16, 2026.

The victims, consisting of 15 males and 12 females, were abducted from the Gamji community. The operation was initiated after troops received a distress call regarding the kidnapping. Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, the Media Information Officer for the task force, confirmed that the troops engaged the terrorists along the Gangare-Kamba route, utilizing superior firepower that compelled the assailants to abandon their captives and flee.

Danja stated, "On contact, troops engaged with superior firepower, forcing the terrorists to abandon their victims and flee in disarray." Following the engagement, the troops conducted a thorough search of the area, ensuring that all 27 victims were rescued unharmed. The rescued individuals were then profiled and handed over to community leaders for reunification with their families.

In a related operation on the same day, troops were on a fighting patrol near Kurba village in Kankara Local Government Area when they encountered terrorists on three motorcycles. Upon seeing the troops, the terrorists fled, leaving behind one motorcycle. This encounter highlights the ongoing efforts of the task force to combat the threats posed by terrorism and kidnapping in the region.

The Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force North West commended the troops for their bravery and rapid response in these operations. He reassured the residents of Katsina, Zamfara, and neighboring states of the task force's commitment to restoring peace and security in the area. These operations are part of a broader military strategy aimed at addressing the persistent issues of terrorism and insecurity that have plagued communities across Nigeria's North-West region.