Troops from the Joint Task Force, North-West, have successfully neutralised eight suspected terrorists and rescued three individuals kidnapped in a series of operations across Katsina, Kaduna, and Zamfara states over the weekend.

The military operations, part of Operation Fansan Yamma, unfolded between Saturday and Sunday, showcasing the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the region. Captain Tamuno Sinivie, the Media Information Officer for the task force, confirmed these developments in a statement released on Monday.

On Saturday, October 24, troops responded to a distress call from farmers at Machika Dam in Sabuwa Local Government Area of Katsina State, where reports indicated terrorist activities. Upon arrival, the soldiers engaged in a gun battle with the terrorists, resulting in the death of two assailants while others managed to escape. During this operation, the troops rescued Mr. Suleiman Umar, a 42-year-old man who had been taken hostage by the terrorists. Additionally, an AK-47 rifle, along with a motorcycle, was recovered at the scene.

In a separate operation on the same day, troops, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force, thwarted an ambush in Ungwan Iya, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Here, six suspected terrorists were killed after the troops responded to an attack on Ungwan Mallami village, where two individuals had been abducted. The soldiers, facing an attack while pursuing the fleeing suspects, exhibited superior firepower, leading to the neutralisation of the terrorists.

The operation also yielded the recovery of three locally fabricated guns, two motorcycles, cutlasses, and various charms believed to be associated with the terrorists.

On Sunday, October 25, troops from Sector Two conducted a successful operation in Bagega, Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State, rescuing two more kidnapping victims, identified as Shehu Chete, 40, and Bugu Bedi, 25, both from Kebbi State. The military spotted suspected terrorists during surveillance and launched a fighting patrol, prompting the suspects to flee and abandon the victims. The rescued individuals were promptly taken to Bagega Clinic for medical attention before being moved to a military base for further assessment and eventual reunion with their families.

Captain Sinivie noted that the military has intensified its patrols and search operations in the affected areas to capture fleeing suspects, rescue additional captives, and prevent further attacks. He commended the troops for their gallantry and resilience, urging local residents to support military efforts by providing timely and credible information regarding suspicious activities in their communities.