- Military operation forces terrorists to flee after gun battle in Sabuwa, as troops intensify patrols across North-West
Troops of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 27 kidnapped residents in Katsina State and recovered a motorcycle abandoned by fleeing terrorists in a separate operation.
The rescue followed a swift military response to a distress call reporting terrorist activities in Gamji community, Sabuwa Local Government Area, on October 16, 2026.
The terrorists had reportedly abducted 27 residents, comprising 15 males and 12 females, prompting troops of Sector 1 to launch a pursuit along the Gangare–Kamba axis.
According to the task force, the troops engaged the terrorists with superior firepower upon making contact, forcing them to abandon their captives and flee in disarray.
All 27 victims were subsequently rescued unharmed during a search of the area.
The rescued residents were profiled and handed over to community leaders for reunification with their families.
In a separate operation on the same day, troops conducting a fighting patrol around Kurba village in Kankara Local Government Area encountered terrorists riding on three motorcycles.
The suspects reportedly fled upon sighting the troops, abandoning one of the motorcycles, which was recovered by the military.
The task force said the operations reflected its sustained offensive against terrorist groups and efforts to deny them freedom of movement while protecting vulnerable communities across its joint operations area.
The Theatre Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA commended the troops for their gallantry and prompt response, reaffirming the task force’s commitment to restoring lasting peace and security.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the commander assured residents of Katsina, Zamfara and neighbouring states that military operations would continue to safeguard communities and counter terrorist activities across the North-West.
The latest operations come amid ongoing security efforts to curb kidnapping, armed attacks and other criminal activities threatening communities in the region.
