Surrendered terrorist
Troops Foil Terror Attacks, Rescue 14 Kidnap Victims in Kaduna, Katsina
Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have disrupted terrorist activities in parts of Kaduna and Katsina States, rescuing 14 kidnapped victims and arresting four suspects during operations conducted between September 23 and 25, 2026.
The military also recovered weapons, ammunition, a motorcycle and suspected ransom money in separate operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating across the two states.
The development was disclosed in official statements signed by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja.
In Kaduna State, troops acting on credible intelligence reportedly ambushed a group of terrorists moving through the bushes around Rijana in Kachia Local Government Area.
A firefight followed the encounter, after which the troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, a loaded magazine containing 13 rounds of ammunition, a magazine carrier and a military jungle hat.
During a separate clearance operation in Awom village, troops arrested a suspect identified as Jacob, who was allegedly found in possession of a locally fabricated pistol and seven rounds of ammunition.
Further operations in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State also produced significant results, as troops intercepted three suspects travelling on a motorcycle with N2.7 million in suspected ransom money allegedly intended for a terrorist kingpin.
In another operation, troops ambushed fleeing terrorists and recovered an additional AK-47 rifle, 30 rounds of ammunition and a motorcycle.
The military said routine patrols in the area also put pressure on the terrorists, forcing them to abandon 14 kidnapped victims comprising 12 males and two females from Anguwan Miko and Tafoki villages.
All 14 victims were safely rescued and handed over to the appropriate local government authorities for further assistance.
The Joint Task Force said the operations form part of ongoing efforts to disrupt terrorist and bandit networks, recover illegal weapons and protect communities across the North-West.
By Abdulrazak Kaura
