Army rescues 9 as terrorists kill 2 security operatives, kidnap many residents in Zamfara

Troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, have rescued nine residents abducted by terrorists in Zamfara State.

The Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Olaniyi Osoba, made this known via a statement issued on Sunday, August 2, 2026.

Osoba disclosed that the incident occurred at approximately 1:40 a.m. Sunday, when terrorists attempted to attack the deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Kasuwan Daji, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Osoba said the successful defense of the base resulted in heavy casualties for the terrorists, forcing them to retreat in disarray and led to the rescue of nine abducted civilians.

He said: “Alerted troops swiftly detected the hostile movement and responded with coordinated, overwhelming firepower.

“The fierce resistance compelled the terrorists to abandon their mission and withdraw in confusion.”

The army spokesman, however, stated that during the initial engagement, reinforcements arrived and troops launched a hot pursuit of the fleeing terrorists, who had abducted an unspecified number of residents from the surrounding community during the attack.

Osoba added: “The relentless pursuit by the troops led to the rescue of nine abducted locals, who were safely recovered.

“Regrettably, one army officer and one police officer paid the supreme price during the heavy firefight.

“Additionally, two soldiers sustained gunshot wounds and were promptly evacuated by air for advanced medical care; both personnel remain in stable condition.”

Presidency replies Atiku, defends Tinubu’s economic reforms

He said the troops have since secured and dominated the area, just as they were conducting exploitation operations to ascertain the full extent of the terrorists’ losses and ensure the safety of the community.

He also confirmed that one soldier and a policeman died in the attack.

Osoba noted: “The outcome underscores the increasing difficulty these armed groups face in executing coordinated attacks against highly alert and combat-ready troops, further degrading their combat capability, morale, and freedom of action.

“Contrary to rumors circulating online that six personnel died. It is worthy to mention that only one army officer and a policeman paid the supreme price.

“Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains resolute in its commitment to sustaining offensive operations, protecting vulnerable communities, and dismantling terrorist networks until lasting peace and security are fully restored across the North-West.”