Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have thwarted a mass abduction attempt and rescued nine civilians, including an infant, after repelling terrorists who attacked travellers in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
According to a statement on Monday by operation spokesman Aliyu Danja, the incident occurred on Sunday when troops received a distress call that terrorists, believed to be led by suspected kingpin Mallam Shuaibu, had infiltrated Unguwar Rogo Village and ambushed civilians along a local route.
Preliminary intelligence suggests the attack may have been in reprisal for the recent arrest of suspected collaborators linked to the terrorist network. The suspects had been intercepted while attempting to procure motorcycles and Premium Motor Spirit in support of militant activities.
Danja explained that the terrorists concealed themselves within a millet farm along the route before opening fire on passing vehicles, causing some drivers to lose control and veer off the road.
Troops of Sector 2 mobilised to the area and engaged the assailants decisively, denying them the opportunity to carry out their abduction plan and forcing them to flee into the surrounding forest.
Nine civilians, including an infant, were rescued in the operation. Two women who sustained gunshot wounds during the attack were promptly evacuated for medical attention and are currently receiving treatment.
