Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued 23 abducted civilians and foiled a separate kidnapping attempt during operations in Zamfara State.
In Anka Local Government Area, troops conducting combat patrols around the outskirts of Wuya town encountered terrorists and secured the release of the victims.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that “the victims comprised three adult males and 20 females who had been abducted from Gummi Local Government Area and held in captivity for about three weeks.”
The rescued civilians are receiving medical attention and other necessary support before being reunited with their families.
In a separate operation in Bungudu Local Government Area, troops responded to intelligence that armed bandits had infiltrated Dankurmi to abduct residents.
The troops swiftly mobilised to the area and engaged the attackers in a heavy firefight.
“The superior firepower of the troops forced the bandits to retreat without succeeding in abducting any civilian,” the sources said.
Bloodstains were later discovered along the terrorists’ withdrawal route, suggesting that some of the attackers may have sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter.
“Troops have maintained a strong presence in the area and are continuing operations to track the fleeing terrorists,” the sources added.
