No fewer than 27 abducted persons have regained their freedom after troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA successfully repelled bandit attacks and carried out rescue operations in parts of Sokoto and Zamfara states.
The military said the operations were conducted following intelligence reports on planned attacks by armed groups operating in several communities across the two North-West states.
According to military authorities, troops swiftly mobilised to the affected areas where they engaged the bandits in intense gunfire, forcing the criminals to abandon their captives and flee into nearby forests.
Security forces said the first operation took place in Shagari Local Government Area of Sokoto State, where soldiers disrupted an attempted kidnapping and rescued several victims before they could be taken away by the attackers.
In another operation, troops responded to reports of bandit activities along major routes linking Sokoto and Zamfara, successfully preventing another abduction attempt and recovering victims already in the custody of the gunmen.
The military disclosed that the combined operations led to the rescue of 27 kidnapped victims, while several rustled animals and motorcycles believed to belong to the criminals were also recovered.
The rescued victims were taken to safety, where they received medical attention and other necessary support before being reunited with their families.
Although the bandits escaped during the exchange of gunfire, the military said troops are currently pursuing them through ongoing clearance operations in surrounding forests and known hideouts.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA noted that the latest success forms part of intensified military offensives aimed at dismantling criminal camps and restoring peace across communities frequently targeted by terrorists and bandits.
Residents of the affected communities commended the prompt intervention of the troops, saying the swift response prevented what could have resulted in another large-scale kidnapping.
The military assured Nigerians that operations against armed groups will continue across the North-West until bandit activities are significantly reduced, urging members of the public to continue providing credible intelligence that will assist security agencies in tracking down criminal elements.