Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued 31 abducted persons and killed five suspected terrorists during coordinated military operations carried out in Zamfara and Katsina states.
The military disclosed that the operations, executed by troops of Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, also resulted in the destruction of terrorist hideouts as well as the recovery of weapons, ammunition and motorcycles.
This was contained in a statement released on Friday by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba.
According to the statement, the victims were rescued during an operation conducted around the Bagega–Kawaye corridor in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Osoba explained that the rescue operation followed a targeted air strike carried out by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, which was later supported by ground troops who launched assaults on terrorist camps located around the western part of Bagega Forest.
He said the rescued victims had spent several weeks in captivity and were from communities in Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum and Anka local government areas across Zamfara and Sokoto states.
“The victims regained their freedom after precision air strikes by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and subsequent ground assaults on terrorist enclaves around Bagega Forest,” he stated.
The army spokesperson added that the rescued persons had already received medical care and would soon be reunited with their families.
In another operation within Zamfara State, troops reportedly clashed with terrorists along the Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis, where two suspects were neutralised and several camps destroyed.
Security operatives also recovered locally fabricated rifles and four motorcycles allegedly used by the criminal groups.
Meanwhile, troops operating in Katsina State intercepted suspected terrorists around the Ruwan Godiya axis and Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area while they were allegedly on their way to launch attacks.
Osoba said a fierce exchange of gunfire followed, leading to the killing of three suspected terrorists and the recovery of motorcycles and ammunition.
According to the military, one of those killed was identified as an associate of notorious terrorist leader, Muhammad Fulani.
The military reaffirmed its determination to sustain offensive operations against terrorist groups and criminal elements across the North-West region.
“Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains committed to eliminating terrorism and restoring safety and security across the North-West,” the statement added.