Soldiers rescue 23 kidnapped victims, arrest four suspected Lakurawa members in Sokoto

Operation FANSAN YAMMA forces in Sokoto have conducted two successful missions, rescuing 23 kidnapped individuals and apprehending four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group. The operations, carried out by Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force North West, also thwarted potential terrorist attacks in several local government areas.

On Sunday, troops encountered a terrorist group in Sabon Gari, Wurno Local Government Area. The terrorists launched an attack, firing upon residents who subsequently fled the scene. In response, troops engaged the attackers, compelling them to retreat and freeing six kidnapped victims in the process. One civilian sustained a gunshot wound and was transported to a nearby medical facility.

In Sabon Birni Local Government Area, intelligence indicated a planned terrorist crossing of the Sabon Birni-Takatsaba Road near Chabe Biyu. Troops positioned an ambush along the terrorists' anticipated route, engaging them with force and successfully driving them away. Another mission along the Kwanar Isa-Shinkafi Road saw troops responding to a distress call about terrorist activity.

They engaged the terrorists, forcing them to flee. This operation led to the rescue of an additional 17 kidnapped civilians. One victim required medical attention for a fractured bone and was taken to the General Hospital in Isa.

In Illela Local Government Area, troops intercepted four individuals suspected of the Lakurawa group, who were allegedly transporting livestock stolen from Sarma Village towards Illela. Six cows were seized from the suspects. The suspects and the recovered livestock are currently in military custody for further investigation. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend any remaining members of the Lakurawa group.