Troops of the Nigerian Army have foiled an attempted mass abduction by terrorists in Unguwar Rogo village, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State, rescuing nine civilians, including an infant.
The incident occurred on August 16 after troops received a distress call that suspected terrorists had infiltrated the community and attacked civilians travelling along a local route.
According to Aliyu Danja, media information officer of Joint Task Force North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma, the terrorists were believed to be led by suspected kingpin Mallam Shuaibu.
Preliminary intelligence suggested that the attack may have been carried out in retaliation for the recent arrest of suspected collaborators linked to the terrorist network. The suspects had reportedly been intercepted while attempting to procure motorcycles and Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) for the terrorists.
The attackers allegedly hid inside a millet farm along the route before opening fire on passing vehicles, causing some drivers to lose control and veer off the road.
Troops from Sector 2 responded to the distress call and engaged the attackers, preventing them from carrying out the planned abduction.
Unable to withstand the military response, the terrorists reportedly abandoned their operation and escaped into the surrounding forest.
The troops subsequently rescued nine civilians, including an infant, while two women who sustained gunshot injuries during the attack were evacuated for medical treatment.
The military said Operation Fansan Yamma would continue to intensify operations against terrorist networks and other criminal elements across the North-West, while prioritising the protection of civilians and efforts to restore lasting peace and security.
Source: Operation Fansan Yamma
