OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA RESCUES NINE KIDNAP VICTIMS, RECOVERS 56 RUSTLED LIVESTOCK, ARRESTS SUSPECTED TERRORIST IN KATSINA

roops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have recorded fresh operational gains in Katsina State with the rescue of nine kidnapped victims, the recovery of 56 rustled livestock, and the arrest of a suspected terrorist during separate intelligence led operations across the state.

According to the Joint Task Force, troops of Sector 2, while on fighting patrol in Faskari Local Government Area, rescued nine kidnapped victims comprising three women, four men, and two children. Preliminary findings indicate that the victims were abducted by terrorists on 9 July 2026 along the Tsafe–Kuchere Road in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

The victims told security personnel that they escaped from the terrorists' hideout after their captors fell asleep before they were intercepted and rescued by the troops. Military authorities stated that the rescued victims are currently receiving appropriate care and are undergoing administrative procedures before being reunited with their families.

In another operation, troops acted on credible intelligence regarding an attempt by suspected terrorists to rustle livestock in Bakori Local Government Area. On sighting the advancing troops, the suspects reportedly opened fire but were forced to retreat after being overwhelmed by the troops' superior firepower.

A follow up exploitation of the area led to the recovery of 56 rustled livestock comprising four cattle and 52 sheep. The recovered animals remain in military custody pending identification and handover to their rightful owners through the appropriate local authorities.

Troops also arrested a suspected terrorist during routine operational activities in Danmusa Local Government Area. Preliminary exploitation of items recovered from the suspect reportedly uncovered materials believed to be associated with terrorist activities. The suspect is currently in military custody while further investigations continue.

From a security perspective, the operations illustrate the multidimensional character of insecurity across the North West, where kidnapping, livestock rustling, and terrorism frequently overlap. Livestock rustling has evolved from a traditional criminal activity into a major source of financing for armed groups operating within the region. Proceeds from stolen livestock are often converted into funds for the procurement of weapons, ammunition, logistics, and recruitment, thereby sustaining violent networks.

The rescue of the kidnapped victims also demonstrates the continuing value of sustained military patrols and intelligence driven operations in disrupting terrorist activities and reducing the ability of criminal groups to retain hostages for ransom.

The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, commended the troops for their professionalism, vigilance, and resilience. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Joint Task Force to sustaining coordinated intelligence driven operations with other security agencies and members of the public until terrorist and other criminal groups are dismantled across the North West.