Troops rescue 31 kidnap victims, neutralise terrorist kingpin in Katsina, Kebbi
Joint Task Force Rescues 31 Kidnapped Victims in Nigeria’s Northwest
KATSINA, Nigeria — Troops from the Joint Task Force (JTF) North-West, operating under Operation Fansan Yamma, rescued 31 people from kidnappers and neutralized two insurgents, including a suspected terrorist leader, during separate operations in Katsina and Kebbi states on September 14 and 15.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, JTF North-West Media Information Officer Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja reported that troops from Sector 2 were deployed to the Funtua Local Government Area of Katsina State following intelligence about recent abductions. Terrorists had reportedly taken civilians from the Unguwan Daudu and Unguwan Chibauna communities.
The troops pursued the attackers and engaged them in a gun battle, compelling them to retreat. The operation resulted in the rescue of 10 victims, including three men, seven women, and an infant. Danja confirmed that the rescued individuals were placed in military custody for further action.
Meanwhile, in Kebbi State, the troops responded to a distress call regarding another kidnapping incident in Fafala Village, Kangiwa Local Government Area. After conducting a patrol towards Fafala and Dandikwa, the soldiers exchanged heavy fire with the terrorists, forcing their withdrawal. This operation led to the rescue of 21 kidnapped victims, who have since been reunited with their families.
On September 15, troops in Katsina acted on intelligence regarding potential attacks in Matazu and Kankara local government areas. During this operation, two terrorists were killed, one of whom was identified as Abbah Alhassan, a known terrorist kingpin.
The recovered items included 10 rounds of ammunition, a motorcycle, a cutlass, camouflage clothing, and Indian hemp. Additionally, two suspected terrorists were arrested in the Yantumaki area of Dan Musa Local Government Area. Preliminary interrogations revealed their connection to a terrorist leader known as Mannori. The suspects are currently in military custody and will undergo further investigation.
