Troops rescue 10 kidnap victims in Northwest Nigeria

Between August 18 and 19, 2026, troops of the Nigeria — Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, Operation Fansan Yamma, conducted separate operations across Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states in Nigeria, rescuing a total of 10 civilians abducted by terrorists. In Nigeria — Sokoto State, troops on patrol in Isa Local Government Area encountered a terrorist ambush on August 19, repelled the attackers, and rescued five civilians, also recovering two abandoned motorcycles. In Nigeria — Kebbi State, acting on intelligence, troops conducted a search-and-rescue operation in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area on August 18, rescuing all three kidnapped victims. In Nigeria — Zamfara State, troops responding to terrorist activity in Tsafe Local Government Area on August 18 forced the terrorists to flee, abandoning two captives who had sustained gunshot wounds and were evacuated for medical treatment. The Joint Task Force stated that efforts were ongoing to track and neutralize the fleeing terrorists, and the Theatre Command commended the troops and urged public cooperation.