Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, have rescued 23 kidnapped civilians and arrested four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group during separate operations across Sokoto State.
The operations, carried out on Sunday, also disrupted attempted terrorist attacks in Wurno, Sabon Birni and Isa Local Government Areas, as troops intensified efforts to protect communities and prevent further attacks.
In Wurno Local Government Area, troops responded to an attack on Sabon Gari after suspected terrorists invaded the community and opened fire, forcing residents to flee their homes. The soldiers engaged the attackers and succeeded in pushing them back, while six kidnapped victims were rescued during the operation...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
One civilian reportedly sustained a gunshot injury during the attack and was evacuated to a medical facility for treatment.
In Sabon Birni Local Government Area, troops also acted on intelligence concerning the movement of suspected terrorists along the Sabon Birni to Takatsaba Road around Chabe Biyu. Security personnel established an ambush along the suspected route and engaged the attackers when they appeared, forcing them to flee.
A separate operation in Isa Local Government Area resulted in the rescue of 17 kidnapped civilians. The troops responded to information about terrorist activity along the Isa, Kwanar Isa and Shinkafi Road before making contact with the suspected terrorists.
The attackers reportedly withdrew after troops engaged them, allowing the soldiers to search the area and locate the 17 victims. One of the rescued civilians had sustained a fracture and was taken to the General Hospital in Isa for medical attention.
Meanwhile, troops in Illela Local Government Area arrested four suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group following intelligence about their movement while allegedly transporting a herd of rustled cattle from Sarma Village towards Illela.
The soldiers established a temporary checkpoint along the suspected route and intercepted the group. Four suspects were arrested and six cows were recovered during the operation.
The suspects and recovered livestock have been placed in military custody for further investigation, while security personnel are continuing efforts to track down other members of the group who reportedly escaped.
The latest operations highlight the continued security challenges facing communities in parts of Sokoto State, particularly areas affected by kidnapping and terrorist activities. Security forces have continued to rely on intelligence gathering, rapid response operations and community information to disrupt criminal groups and rescue abducted civilians.
Residents have also been encouraged to provide credible and timely information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to protect communities and prevent further attacks.
