Troops Intercept Gun Runners, Rescue Six Kidnap Victims in Zamfara
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have intercepted three suspected gun runners and rescued six kidnapped victims in separate operations in Zamfara State.
The operations, conducted on August 23, 2026, were part of sustained intelligence-driven efforts to disrupt terrorist logistics networks and protect vulnerable communities and motorists across the North-West.
In the first operation, troops of Sector 2 intercepted a vehicle along the Kaura Namoda–Shinkafi road with three suspected gun runners on board.
A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of an AK-103-2 rifle, one magazine and 30 rounds of ammunition concealed inside a bag of millet.
Preliminary investigation indicated that the weapon was allegedly being transported to Yar-Galadima in Maru Local Government Area.
The suspects and the recovered weapon and ammunition are currently in military custody for further investigation.
In a separate operation, troops responded to a distress call following a terrorist attack on motorists along the Anka–Gummi road.
The troops arrived while the attackers were reportedly attempting to force six victims into the surrounding forest.
According to a statement issued by the Joint Task Force Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the troops engaged the terrorists and mounted an aggressive pursuit, forcing the assailants to abandon the victims and flee.
All six victims were subsequently rescued and secured by the troops.
Three of the rescued victims, who sustained minor injuries during the ordeal, were evacuated to a medical facility where they are receiving treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.
The Joint Task Force said the operations demonstrate its commitment to dismantling arms supply chains supporting terrorist networks and preventing attacks against communities and road users.
It added that troops would sustain intelligence-led operations, aggressive patrols and rapid-response measures across the Joint Operations Area.
The Joint Task Force also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information on suspicious persons, weapons and movements to security agencies.
It stressed that sustained public cooperation remains critical to dismantling terrorist networks and protecting lives and property across the North-West.
