Troops Neutralize Bandits, Intercept N23m Ransom, Rescue Victims in Zamfara, Sokoto
Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) have recorded major successes in the fight against terrorism and banditry, intercepting ransom payments totaling over ₦23 million, recovering more than 160 rustled livestock, rescuing kidnap victims, and neutralizing terrorists in Zamfara and Sokoto States.
The operations, conducted between September 8 and 10, 2025, covered Shinkafi, Gusau, Bukkuyum, and Tureta Local Government Areas.
According to military sources, the breakthroughs came through a series of coordinated offensives and stop-and-search operations.
PRNigeria reports that in Shinkafi axis, troops from 1 Brigade Forward Operating Base and the Mobile Strike Team cleared terrorists’ hideouts around Galadi and Tubali villages, forcing several fighters to flee with gunshot wounds. At Katuru Bridge along the Shinkafi–Isa Road, the soldiers intercepted three suspects in possession of ₦8.7 million suspected ransom. Later that same day, two more suspects were arrested in a Toyota Corolla with ₦15 million.
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Investigations revealed the money was ransom paid for abducted locals held by terrorists along the Nigeria–Niger Republic border. The suspects and exhibits have since been handed over to relevant agencies for further investigation.
Meanwhile, troops under Sector 2 OPFY operating in Anka and Tureta LGAs ambushed terrorists moving rustled livestock into Bagega and Furagirke forests. In the Anka axis, eight kidnapped victims and 21 sheep were rescued, while in Tureta, 143 stolen sheep were recovered. The victims have been reunited with their families, and the animals handed over to local authorities in Bakura and Tureta.
In a separate encounter, troops on patrol around Lilo–Kofi Road in Gusau LGA came under heavy fire from terrorists. After a fierce gun battle, six terrorists were neutralized while others fled. However, the military confirmed that five soldiers lost their lives—three in action and two later from injuries sustained during the firefight.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA has vowed to sustain its offensive until terrorism and banditry are completely eliminated from the North West and parts of the North Central. The military also appealed to residents to support ongoing efforts by providing timely and credible information to security forces.
By PRNigeria
