Nigerian Army Intercept Gun Runners, Rescue Six Kidnapped Victims In Zamfara State
Troops of Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA have recorded further operational successes in Zamfara State by thwarting a weapons smuggling attempt and rescuing 6 kidnapped victims in two separate operations conducted on August 23, 2026.
In the first operation, troops from Sector 2 intercepted a vehicle carrying 3 suspected gun runners along the Kaura Namoda–Shinkafi Road. A meticulous search of the vehicle uncovered an AK-103-2 rifle, one magazine and 30 rounds of ammunition concealed within a bag of millet.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the weapons cache was destined for Yar-Galadima in the Maru Local Government Area. The 3 suspects, along with the recovered weapon, ammunition, and other items are currently in military custody undergoing further investigation.
In a separate operation on the same day, troops demonstrated a rapid response following reports of a terrorist attack on motorists along the Anka–Gummi Road. Upon arrival at the scene, troops engaged the terrorists, who were attempting to force their captives into the surrounding forest.
An aggressive pursuit by the troops forced the assailants to flee and abandon all 6 victims. The rescued individuals were immediately secured by the troops. Three of the victims who sustained minor injuries during the ordeal were evacuated to a medical facility for treatment and are currently in stable condition.
These successful operations underscore the unwavering commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to severing the arms supply chains of terrorist networks and neutralizing threats against local communities and commuters. The Joint Task Force will continue to take the fight to these criminal elements through intelligence-driven operations, aggressive patrols and rapid response across the Joint Operations Area.
The Joint Task Force commends the public for their support and urges citizens to remain vigilant. We appeal to residents to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security forces regarding suspicious persons, weapons or movements. Public cooperation remains a critical component in our mission to dismantle terrorist networks and ensure the safety of lives and property throughout the North West region.
