Troops Repel Terrorist Ambush in Zamfara, Rescue Two Abducted Herders, Recover 520 Livestock in Sokoto
Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have repelled a terrorist ambush in Zamfara State and rescued two abducted herders while recovering 520 livestock in Sokoto State.
The military recorded the successes on October 28, 2026, during separate operations aimed at containing terrorist activities, protecting vulnerable communities and restoring security across the North-West region.
In Zamfara State, troops of Sector 2 encountered a coordinated terrorist ambush while conducting a fighting patrol along the Anka–Guruzu Road.
The troops were clearing the road following reports of terrorist activities when armed men positioned on both sides of the route launched an attack.
However, the soldiers responded with superior firepower, fought through the ambush and inflicted heavy casualties on the attackers, forcing them to retreat in disarray.
Following the encounter, the troops maintained control of the road and restored freedom of movement for commuters.
One soldier sustained a gunshot wound during the firefight and was promptly evacuated for medical attention. He is currently in stable condition.
In a separate operation in Sokoto State, troops foiled an attempt by terrorists to rustle livestock and abduct herders at Takasaba Village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area.
The operation followed credible intelligence about terrorist activities in the area, prompting the troops to swiftly mobilise and engage the armed men.
The superior firepower of the troops forced the terrorists to flee, abandoning 520 livestock and two abducted herders.
The rescued victims were identified as Malam Sulaiman, 50, and Nasiru Sulaiman, 14. They were subsequently handed over to the Sabon Birni Local Government authorities.
The military said the operations demonstrated the resilience, combat readiness and sustained offensive posture of Operation FANSAN YAMMA in denying terrorists freedom of action, securing critical routes and protecting communities across the North-West.
The Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General WB Idris, commended the troops for their gallantry and fighting spirit.
He urged them to sustain the offensive against terrorist elements while reassuring residents of the military’s commitment to restoring peace and security across the Joint Operations Area.
The commander also encouraged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations.
