Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued six kidnapped victims and recovered ₦800,000 allegedly taken from them by terrorists during a rescue operation in Dandume Local Government Area of Katsina State.
According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, troops of Sector 2 responded to a distress call after terrorists intercepted a vehicle and abducted six occupants along the Dandume-Sheme Road.
The troops reportedly moved swiftly to the area and engaged the terrorists in a firefight.
Overwhelmed by the troops’ superior firepower, the terrorists abandoned their captives and fled into surrounding bushes.
During a subsequent search of the area, all six victims were rescued unharmed.
Troops also recovered ₦800,000 allegedly stolen from the victims. The recovered money and vehicle were later handed over to the victims in the presence of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Dandume.
In a separate operation conducted on 21 August, troops encountered terrorists along the Maraban Kankara axis in Kankara Local Government Area. The troops engaged the fleeing suspects and recovered a motorcycle during follow-up operations in the area.
The Joint Task Force said it remains committed to sustaining offensive operations and aggressive patrols aimed at denying terrorists freedom of action and protecting communities across the North West.
The successful rescue has been welcomed by residents of Dandume and surrounding communities, where incidents of banditry and kidnapping have continued to pose security challenges.
Community members expressed relief over the safe return of the victims and the recovery of their stolen money, describing the operation as a testament to the effectiveness of timely military intervention.
Residents also called for sustained security operations along major roads and vulnerable communities to deter future attacks and enhance public confidence in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
Security analysts say the operation highlights the importance of prompt distress reporting and closer collaboration between local communities and security agencies in combating criminal activities across the region.
Lieutenant Colonel Danja reiterated the task force’s appeal for residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security forces to support ongoing operations against terrorist and criminal elements.
