Troops rescue 31 kidnap victims, neutralise terrorist kingpin in Katsina, Kebbi

Troops of the Joint Task Force, North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma, carried out separate operations in Katsina and Kebbi states, rescuing 31 kidnapped victims and eliminating two insurgents, including a suspected terrorist kingpin. The media information officer of the JTF North-West, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, shared these details in a statement on Wednesday.

On September 14, troops operating in Sector 2 of Katsina State responded to reports of civilians being abducted from Unguwan Daudu and Unguwan Chibauna communities. After a pursuit and gun battle, the terrorists fled, resulting in the rescue of 10 victims, comprising three males, seven females, and an infant. These rescued individuals are now in military custody awaiting further action.

On September 15, troops in Kebbi State intercepted a distress call about civilians being abducted from Fafala Village in Kangiwa Local Government Area. The troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce exchange of fire, forcing them to retreat. Following this operation, the area was thoroughly searched, leading to the rescue of additional 21 victims who were reunited with their families.

In Katsina, troops received intelligence about terrorist plans to attack communities in Matazu and Kankara local government areas on September 15. During an operation at their suspected hideout, two terrorists were killed, including Abbah Alhassan, a known terrorist kingpin. Weapons and materials seized included 10 rounds of ammunition, a motorcycle, a cutlass, camouflage clothing, and Indian hemp.

Two additional suspected terrorists were arrested in the Yantumaki general area of Dan Musa Local Government Area, with preliminary interrogation suggesting their association with the terrorist kingpin known as Mannori. These suspects are currently in military custody for further investigation.