Troops intercept ₦23m terrorist ransom, rescue victims in Zamfara, Sokoto operations

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) have recorded major gains against terrorists and bandits in Zamfara and Sokoto States, intercepting ransom money, rescuing kidnap victims, recovering rustled livestock, and neutralizing armed fighters.

The military said the operations, conducted between 8 and 10 September across Shinkafi, Gusau, Bukkuyum and Tureta Local Government Areas, disrupted terrorist logistics and freed abducted persons.

According to Captain David Adewusi, Media Information Officer for OPFY, troops at Shinkafi intercepted over ₦23 million believed to be ransom payments for abducted locals held by terrorists along the Nigeria–Niger Republic border.

Three suspects carrying ₦8.7 million and two others in a Toyota Corolla with ₦15 million were arrested.

Investigations confirmed the funds were ransom proceeds, and the suspects have been handed to relevant authorities.

In separate operations in Anka and Tureta LGAs, troops ambushed terrorists attempting to move rustled livestock to forest hideouts.

Eight kidnap victims were rescued, while 164 sheep were recovered and later handed over to local authorities.

Troops also engaged terrorists in a fierce firefight along Lilo–Kofi Road in Gusau LGA, killing six assailants.

However, the army confirmed the loss of three soldiers, while two others critically injured later died.

Adewusi reaffirmed OPFY’s commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorists until peace is restored across the Northwest and parts of the North Central.

He urged residents to support security forces with timely and credible information.