By Vicky Attah, Correspondent
A coordinated military operation by troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA has thwarted a mass abduction in Zamfara State, leading to the rescue of 48 residents seized by terrorists during an attack on Magami village in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area.
The operation was launched after troops attached to Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force (North West) received intelligence that heavily armed terrorists had stormed the community in the early hours of Saturday.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, disclosed that the assailants, riding on about 40 motorcycles, invaded the village and forcefully assembled dozens of residents before attempting to move them into a nearby forest.
However, the terrorists’ plan was cut short when troops swiftly confronted them. A fierce exchange of gunfire followed, compelling the attackers to retreat in disarray and abandon all 48 captives, who were rescued unhurt.
The military said one resident lost his life during the attack, while two others sustained gunshot injuries. The wounded victims were evacuated to the General Hospital in Kaura Namoda for treatment.
Security forces have since intensified clearance operations and patrols across the area to track down the fleeing terrorists and prevent further attacks.
Commending the troops for their courage and professionalism, the Theatre Command described the successful operation as a reflection of the military’s sustained commitment to safeguarding communities across the North West.
The command also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies, noting that public support remains crucial to ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorist activities in the region.
