Three kidnapped persons have regained their freedom in Katsina State after troops of Operation Fansan Yamma responded to a distress call concerning terrorist activities along the Dandume-Sheme Road.
The rescue operation was carried out by troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma (JTF NW OPFY), in collaboration with personnel of the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North-West, Lt. Colonel Aliyu Danja, local residents alerted security authorities to the activities of suspected terrorists operating around the Dandume-Sheme axis.
Acting on the information, troops and police personnel swiftly mobilised to the area in an attempt to intercept the attackers.
The security personnel subsequently made contact with the terrorists and engaged them. According to the military, the troops’ superior firepower forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and flee into the surrounding bush.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of the three kidnapped victims.
Two vehicles allegedly used by the terrorists were also recovered during the operation.
The rescued victims and the recovered vehicles were subsequently handed over to the Divisional Police Officer in Dandume for further action.
The military said troops have continued to maintain an aggressive presence in the area through patrols aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of movement and preventing them from regrouping.
The latest operation forms part of continuing military efforts by Operation Fansan Yamma to tackle terrorism, kidnapping and other violent criminal activities across the North-West.
The formation has repeatedly called for cooperation from residents, particularly through the provision of timely and credible information that can assist security agencies in responding to threats.
Danja said the successful operation demonstrated the determination of Operation Fansan Yamma troops to protect the lives and property of law-abiding citizens within its area of responsibility.
The military also urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security outpost.
The call for community intelligence remains significant in areas affected by terrorist and kidnapping activities, as information from residents can help security agencies identify the movement and location of criminal elements.
For the rescued victims, the operation ends a period of captivity, while the recovery of the vehicles is expected to support further police investigation into the activities of the suspected terrorists.
Security personnel are expected to maintain their presence along the Dandume-Sheme corridor as part of efforts to prevent further attacks and protect communities in the area.
