Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 23 kidnapped civilians and arrested four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group during separate operations across Sokoto State.
The operations, conducted on September 20, 2026, also resulted in the recovery of six cattle allegedly rustled by terrorists, according to the Joint Task Force North West.
In Wurno Local Government Area, troops responded to an attack on Sabon Gari, where terrorists reportedly opened fire, forcing residents to flee. The troops engaged the attackers and forced them to withdraw, rescuing six kidnapped victims.
A civilian injured during the attack was evacuated for medical treatment.
In another operation along the Isa–Kwanar Isa–Shinkafi Road in Isa Local Government Area, troops responded to a distress call concerning terrorist activity and engaged the attackers.
The military said the terrorists were forced to retreat, after which troops conducted a search of the area and rescued 17 kidnapped civilians. One of the victims, who sustained a fracture, was taken to General Hospital, Isa, for treatment.
Troops also conducted operations in Sabon Birni Local Government Area, where they acted on intelligence regarding the movement of suspected terrorists along the Sabon Birni–Takatsaba Road. The troops established an ambush and engaged the suspected terrorists, who fled the area.
In Illela Local Government Area, troops acting on intelligence intercepted suspected members of the Lakurawa group allegedly transporting rustled cattle from Sarma Village towards Illela.
The operation resulted in the arrest of four suspects and the recovery of six cows. The suspects and recovered livestock remain in military custody as investigations continue, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the group.
The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North West, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, disclosed the operations in a statement issued to journalists.
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