Troops Rescue 22 After Road Ambush, Foil Kidnappings In Sokoto Villages

 DEKERA, Gusau

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA have successfully rescued 22 kidnapped victims during two separate operations in the Sabon Birni and Isa Local Government Areas of Sokoto State.

In a statement by the Media Information officer of the joint Taskforce Northwest Operation FANSAN YAMMA , Lt Col Aliyu Danja, said the first rescue occurred on June 18, 2026, after troops received credible intelligence that terrorists had blocked the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road at Kura Mota Village. The criminals had attacked two civilian vehicles and abducted several passengers, tragically killing one civilian during the assault.

“In response, the military mobilized immediately, launching a coordinated ground pursuit supported by aerial surveillance. The intense pressure from the troops forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and flee, resulting in the successful rescue of 17 passengers, who have since been handed over to the appropriate authorities.

“On the same day, troops responded to another emergency at Chohi Village, where armed terrorists were attempting to abduct farmers working on their land. Military personnel rapidly deployed to the area and aggressively pursued the attackers along their withdrawal route, successfully rescuing five farmers and safely reuniting them with their families.” the statement stressed.

Following these operations, the troops conducted confidence-building patrols through neighboring villages, including Gidan Rana and Gidan Sale. These maneuvers were designed to reassure local residents, dominate the area, and completely deny the terrorists freedom of action.