Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have foiled an attempted mass abduction by terrorists in Unguwar Rogo Village, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State, rescuing nine civilians, including an infant.
The operation followed a distress call received by troops on August 16, 2026, reporting that terrorists had infiltrated the community and attacked civilians travelling along a local route.
According to the Joint Task Force, the terrorists were believed to be led by a suspected kingpin, Mallam Shuaibu.
Preliminary intelligence indicated that the attack may have been carried out in retaliation for the recent arrest of suspected collaborators linked to the terrorist network.
The suspects had earlier been intercepted by troops while allegedly attempting to procure motorcycles and Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to support the activities of the terrorists.
In an apparent reprisal attack, the terrorists reportedly concealed themselves in a millet farm along the route and opened fire on passing vehicles, causing some drivers to lose control and veer off the road.
Responding to the distress call, troops of Sector 2 swiftly moved to the area and engaged the terrorists, disrupting their attempt to abduct the civilians.
Unable to withstand the troops’ response, the terrorists abandoned their operation and fled into the surrounding forest.
The troops subsequently rescued nine civilians, including an infant, who had been caught up in the attack.
Two women sustained gunshot wounds during the terrorists’ assault and were immediately evacuated for medical treatment. They are currently receiving medical attention.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA said it remained determined to deny terrorists and other criminal elements the freedom to attack innocent citizens across the North West.
The Joint Task Force added that it would continue to sustain pressure on terrorist networks while taking necessary measures to protect lives and restore lasting peace and security in the region.
The statement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, on August 17, 2026.
