Operation FANSAN YAMMA Intercepts Ransom Funds, Rescues Victims and Recovers Rustled Livestock in Zamfara, Sokoto

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) have recorded major breakthroughs in ongoing counter-terrorism operations across Zamfara and Sokoto States, intercepting ransom payments, recovering rustled livestock, rescuing kidnapped victims, and neutralising terrorists.

According to a statement by Captain David Adewusi, Media Information Officer for OPFY, the operations were conducted between 8 and 10 September 2025 in Shinkafi, Gusau, Bukkuyum, and Tureta Local Government Areas.

Interception of Ransom Funds

During coordinated offensives along the Shinkafi–Katuru–Galadi–Tubali axis, troops of 1 Brigade Forward Operating Base Shinkafi and Mobile Strike Team cleared terrorists’ hideouts in Galadi and Tubali villages. While conducting stop-and-search operations at Katuru Bridge, troops intercepted three suspects with ₦8.7 million. Later the same day, two more suspects were arrested in a black Toyota Corolla carrying ₦15 million.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the funds, totalling over ₦23 million, were ransom payments for abducted locals along Nigeria’s border with Niger Republic. The suspects and exhibits have been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.

Rescue of Victims and Recovery of Livestock

In a parallel operation, troops under Sector 2 ambushed terrorists moving stolen livestock from Talata Mafara (Zamfara) and Tureta (Sokoto) LGAs towards Bagega and Furagirke forests. The criminals abandoned their captives and livestock as they fled with gunshot wounds.

Troops rescued eight kidnapped victims and recovered 21 sheep in Anka LGA, while 143 rustled sheep were recovered in Tureta. The victims have since been reunited with their families, and the livestock handed over to the respective local government chairmen for further action.

Fierce Battle in Gusau

Elsewhere, troops of 1 Brigade Forward Operating Base Lilo came under heavy fire while on patrol along Lilo–Kofi Road in Gusau LGA. Six terrorists were neutralised during the firefight, while several others fled. Unfortunately, three soldiers lost their lives in the encounter, and two others later succumbed to injuries sustained in battle.

Ongoing Commitment

Operation FANSAN YAMMA reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining relentless offensives until terrorism and banditry are eradicated across the North West and parts of the North Central. The public has been urged to support security forces with credible information to help restore peace in the region.