Military Rescues 31 Kidnapped Victims in Katsina, Kebbi Operations

Thirty-one kidnapped victims have been rescued following coordinated military operations across Katsina and Kebbi states, officials said, as troops intensified raids against terrorist networks in the North West.

Troops operating under Operation FANSAN YAMMA neutralised two terrorists, including a suspected kingpin, and arrested two others during operations conducted between September 14 and 15, 2026.

The first rescue operation took place on Monday, September 14, in Funtua Local Government Area of Katsina State after troops responded to reports of a mass abduction from Unguwan Daudu and Unguwan Chibauna.

Following a gun battle with the abductors, soldiers rescued 10 victims, comprising three men, seven women, and an infant.
In a separate operation the same day in Kebbi State, troops responded to a distress call from Fafala Village and pursued the attackers toward Dandikwa.

The soldiers engaged the group and forced them to retreat, leading to the rescue of 21 victims who have since been reunited with their families.

Kingpin Killed, Suspects Arrested

The offensive continued on Tuesday, September 15, when troops acted on intelligence about a planned attack on the Matazu and Kankara areas.

Military authorities said troops raided a terrorist hideout and neutralised two terrorists, including a suspected kingpin identified as Abbah Alhassan.
Items recovered during the operation included ammunition, a motorcycle, camouflage gear, and suspected narcotics, according to officials.

Meanwhile, in Dan Musa Local Government Area, troops arrested two suspects alleged to be linked to another terrorist leader known as Mannori. The suspects are currently undergoing interrogation.

Military Urges Public Vigilance

In a statement, Media Information Officer Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja said the operations were reducing the space available for terrorist networks to operate.

He urged residents in affected communities to remain vigilant and continue providing timely intelligence to security forces.