Army rescues 10 civilians in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara

Nigerian Army logo. Photo: Army

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 10 civilians in separate operations across Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states.

In a post on X on Thursday, the Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, said the operations were carried out as part of ongoing efforts to protect lives and secure communities across the North West.

On August 19, 2026, troops conducting a patrol in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State encountered a terrorist ambush.

The troops responded swiftly and forced the terrorists to flee the area.

“During the encounter, five civilians were rescued and subsequently reunited with their families,” the Joint Task Force said.

Two motorcycles abandoned by the fleeing terrorists were also recovered.

Earlier, on August 18, troops acting on intelligence about three kidnapped victims conducted a search-and-rescue operation in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

• Army recovers AK-47 rifles, ammunition in Plateau
• Military relocates Operation Safe Haven headquarters following Plateau killings
• PHOTOS: Police, soldiers block ex-servicemen from protesting at defence ministry

The operation resulted in the successful rescue of all three victims, who were subsequently profiled and handed over to the appropriate local authorities.

Similarly, troops responded to reported terrorist activities in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State on August 18.

“The rapid mobilisation of the troops compelled the terrorists to flee the area, abandoning two captives,” the Joint Task Force said.

The victims, who had sustained gunshot wounds during their ordeal, were immediately evacuated to a medical facility for urgent treatment.

The Joint Task Force said efforts were ongoing to track and neutralise the fleeing terrorists.

The Theatre Command commended the troops for their vigilance and swift response and reassured residents of its determination to sustain pressure on terrorist elements across the Joint Operations Area.

“Members of the public are encouraged to continue providing timely and credible information to security forces to support ongoing operations and enhance the protection of lives and property,” it said.