Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued 31 kidnap victims and destroyed several terrorist camps during coordinated operations across Zamfara and Katsina states.
The military also said five terrorists were killed during the operations, while weapons, ammunition and motorcycles were recovered from the criminal elements.
This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba.
According to Osoba, the rescue operation was carried out by troops of Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA around the Bagega–Kawaye axis in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Osoba said the operation followed a precision air interdiction by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and a follow-up ground assault on terrorist enclaves located west of Bagega Forest.
“The kidnapped victims were rescued from captivity following a precision air interdiction conducted by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and a follow-on ground operation on terrorist enclaves west of Bagega Forest,” he said.
The rescued victims, according to the military, had spent several weeks in captivity and are natives of Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum and Anka local government areas across Zamfara and Sokoto states.
Osoba added that the victims had received medical attention and would soon be reunited with their families.
In a separate operation in Zamfara State, Osoba said troops engaged terrorists along the Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis, where two terrorists were neutralised and several camps destroyed.
The military said fabricated rifles and four motorcycles allegedly used by the terrorists were recovered during the operation.
Meanwhile, troops in Katsina State intercepted suspected terrorists at the Ruwan Godiya axis and Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area while they were allegedly moving to launch an attack.
According to Osoba, three terrorists were killed after a fierce gun battle with troops.
“Troops intercepted terrorists in transit for an imminent attack. Following a fierce firefight, troops neutralized three terrorists and recovered motorcycles and quantities of ammunition,” he stated.
The military further disclosed that one of the terrorists killed was identified as a foot soldier loyal to notorious terrorist kingpin, Muhammad Fulani.
Osoba reaffirmed the commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to sustaining offensive operations against criminal elements across the North-West.
“Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains resolute in its commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens across the North West region,” he added.