Troops rescue six kidnap victims in Benue-Taraba axis

Troops from the Joint Task Force North West conducted two separate operations in Katsina State, leading to the arrest of three suspected terrorist logistics couriers and the rescue of 14 kidnapped victims. This information was released in a press statement by Aliyu Danja, the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force, on their Facebook page.

During the first operation on September 24, 2026, soldiers intercepted three suspects on a motorcycle in Faskari Local Government Area. The suspects were reportedly transporting ₦2.7 million in ransom money, along with three mobile phones intended for delivery to a terrorist leader through intermediaries. The suspects and the recovered items have since been placed under military custody for further investigation.

On September 25, troops received credible intelligence about terrorist movements in the Faskari area. They set up an ambush, engaging the terrorists and forcing them to flee. In the aftermath of the operation, soldiers recovered an AK-47 rifle, 30 rounds of ammunition, and a motorcycle.

Additionally, during the same operation, troops on routine patrol intercepted and rescued 14 kidnapped victims, comprising 12 males and two females. The victims had been abducted from the villages of Anguwan Miko and Tafoki within Faskari Local Government Area. They were reportedly abandoned by their captors upon sighting the advancing military forces. The rescued individuals have been turned over to the Faskari Local Government for further action.

The Theatre Command emphasized its commitment to protecting lives and property, rescuing hostages, and curbing terrorist and criminal activities in the Joint Operations Area. They also praised the troops for their vigilance and encouraged the public to provide timely and credible information about suspicious activities in their communities.