Troops rescue seven kidnapped victims, recover rustled cattle in Katsina, Sokoto

Operation Fansan Yamma troops have rescued seven kidnapped individuals in Katsina State and reclaimed a large herd of stolen cattle in Sokoto State. The Nigerian Army reported that soldiers from Sector 2 of Operation Fansan Yamma performed the rescue on Daye–Malumfashi Road in Danmusa Local Government Area, Katsina State. The operation was prompted by a distress call on September 21, 2026, regarding an ambush on a commercial vehicle en route from Kaduna to Katsina.

The Army stated that the troops arrived swiftly, compelling the assailants to abandon their victims and retreat. They revealed, "Seven victims, including six female students from Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, and one male commercial driver, were rescued unharmed." The rescued individuals were subsequently screened for security and provided medical care before being returned to their families and educational institutions for reunification.

In Sokoto State, troops from the same sector thwarted a terrorist attack and recovered a significant number of cattle believed to have been rustled from local residents. The Army disclosed that the operation was initiated based on credible intelligence indicating armed terrorists had entered Asarara Kaura community within Kebbe Local Government Area, terrorizing residents and stealing livestock.

Acting on this information, the troops swiftly moved to hinder the terrorists' escape with the cattle. They intercepted the fleeing attackers along the Tambuwal–Gadaichi–Gummi Road. The terrorists reportedly opened fire upon spotting the troops, resulting in a gun battle. The Army asserted that the soldiers overpowered the attackers with greater firepower and strategic action.

The terrorists fled into the nearby bushes, with some likely sustaining gunshot wounds, leaving the cattle behind. The Army noted the positive response from the Asarara Kaura community and surrounding areas, who gathered to commend the troops for their bravery and timely response in protecting their lives and livelihoods. The recovered cattle are presently in military custody while efforts are underway to return them to their rightful owners.