Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued nine kidnapped victims, recovered 56 rustled livestock and arrested a suspected terrorist during separate intelligence-led operations in Katsina State.
The operations, conducted across Faskari, Bakori and Danmusa Local Government Areas, form part of ongoing efforts by the military to dismantle terrorist networks and curb criminal activities in the North-West.
In Faskari Local Government Area, troops of Sector 2, while on a fighting patrol, rescued nine kidnap victims comprising three women, four men and two children.
Military authorities said preliminary investigations revealed that the victims were abducted by terrorists on July 9, 2026, along the Tsafe–Kuchere Road in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The victims reportedly escaped from the terrorists’ hideout after their captors fell asleep before they were intercepted and rescued by the troops.
They are currently in safe custody and are undergoing necessary procedures ahead of their reunification with their families.
In a separate operation in Bakori Local Government Area, troops acted on credible intelligence and responded to an attempt by terrorists to rustle livestock.
According to the military, the terrorists opened fire on the advancing troops but retreated into nearby bushes after encountering superior firepower.
The troops recovered 56 rustled animals, comprising four cattle and 52 sheep, which are being held pending their handover to the appropriate local authorities.
Meanwhile, troops also arrested a suspected terrorist during routine security operations in Danmusa Local Government Area.
Items recovered from the suspect during preliminary exploitation are believed to have links to terrorist activities. The suspect remains in military custody and is undergoing further investigation.
Commending the troops for the successful operations, the Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, praised their professionalism, vigilance and resilience in sustaining pressure on criminal elements across the theatre.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Joint Task Force to intensify intelligence-driven operations in collaboration with other security agencies and members of the public to eliminate terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities across the North-West.
