TROOPS of the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA have thwarted a mass abduction attempt by terrorists in Zamfara State, rescuing nine civilians, including a baby, in a dawn operation that saw fierce exchanges with the assailants.
The incident unfolded on 16 August 2026 in Unguwar Rogo Village, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, when soldiers received an urgent distress call that terrorists, believed to be under the command of suspected kingpin Mallam Shuaibu, had infiltrated the community and opened fire on travellers along a local route.
According to military sources, the attack is thought to be a reprisal for the recent arrest of suspected collaborators linked to the terrorist network. Those individuals had been intercepted by troops while attempting to purchase motorcycles and Premium Motor Spirit to support terrorist activities – a move that appears to have provoked Saturday’s assault.
In an apparent bid to retaliate and seize civilians, the terrorists concealed themselves within a millet farm bordering the route and unleashed gunfire on passing vehicles, causing some drivers to lose control and veer off the road in panic.
Sector 2 troops responded with speed and precision, moving to the location and engaging the terrorists decisively. The soldiers’ superior firepower denied the assailants the opportunity to carry out their abduction plan, forcing them to abandon their mission and flee into the surrounding forest.
Following the exchange, nine civilians were rescued, among them an infant. Two women who sustained gunshot wounds during the attack were promptly evacuated and are currently receiving medical treatment.
Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force, confirmed the operation in a statement released today.
“Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains resolute in its determination to deny terrorists and other criminal elements the freedom to attack innocent citizens,” Colonel Danja said.
“The Joint Task Force will continue to sustain pressure on terrorist networks while taking all necessary measures to protect lives and restore lasting peace and security across the North West region.”
The successful intervention marks another blow against terrorist elements operating in the region, as security forces continue to intensify operations amid ongoing concerns over banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria’s North West.
