Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force Operation Fansan Yamma, have successfully rescued four kidnapped victims following separate intelligence-led counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations across Zamfara and Kebbi states.
​The successful operations were executed on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, after security forces received actionable intelligence regarding terrorist activities and the movement of captives in both states.
​Official details of the rescues were confirmed in a statement released on Thursday, October 22, 2026, by Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 8 Division Nigerian Army and Spokesperson for Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma.
​In Zamfara State, troops acted on credible alerts reporting an ongoing terrorist assault on a farmland across a river in Binoni Marafa, located within the Maru Local Government Area. The military units mounted an immediate pursuit and engaged the armed assailants, forcing them to flee the scene and successfully securing the area. During the encounter, soldiers rescued 25-year-old Mansur Shehu and 49-year-old Kadijat Haruna.
​Simultaneously, in Kebbi State, military units initiated a targeted search-and-rescue mission in the Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area after receiving reports that suspected terrorists were transporting abducted victims from Dipindu Village in the Kanya District.
Troops intercepted the criminal gang along the Bena–Sawade axis, catching the bandits off guard and forcing them to abandon their captives before fleeing into the surrounding forest.
The operation led to the safe rescue of 35-year-old Jimoh Su-Arege and 41-year-old Kalahe Danjuma, both of whom were safely evacuated and formally handed over to the Seriki of Dipindu for reunion with their families and community.
​Speaking on behalf of the military command, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba reaffirmed the resolve of the armed forces to maintain relentless pressure on criminal syndicates operating across the North-West region.
​”Troops have continued to intensify patrols, ambush operations, and surveillance across affected communities to strengthen security, dominate operational areas, and deny criminal elements freedom of action,” Osoba said.
​The military high command praised local residents for providing timely intelligence that made the rescues possible, urging citizens to remain vigilant and continue collaborating with security agencies as clearance operations proceed throughout the region.
