By Tunji Braimoh, Abuja

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have thwarted an attempted mass abduction along the Gummi–Sokoto highway and rescued 27 kidnapped victims during a series of coordinated operations across Sokoto and Zamfara states.

The successful operations, carried out over the past two days, underscore ongoing military efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities in Nigeria’s North-West region.

Security analyst Bakatsine disclosed the development in a post shared on X on Wednesday, noting that troops acted swiftly after receiving intelligence about a planned mass abduction along the busy highway.

According to him, soldiers responded promptly to the threat and engaged the suspected kidnappers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to abandon their mission and flee the area.

The military’s rapid intervention prevented what could have been a large-scale abduction of travellers and commuters using the highway.

In separate operations conducted across Sokoto and Zamfara states, troops also secured the release of 27 victims who had been kidnapped by criminal elements in earlier attacks.

The rescued individuals were safely evacuated from captivity and have since been reunited with their families.

Bakatsine stated that the operations demonstrated the increasing effectiveness of security forces in disrupting criminal networks and responding to threats in vulnerable communities.

He further revealed that troops recovered several livestock and motorcycles believed to have been stolen or abandoned by the fleeing criminals during the encounters.

The recovered items are expected to aid ongoing investigations and efforts to identify and apprehend members of the criminal groups involved.

Military authorities have continued to intensify offensive operations across the North-West, targeting bandit enclaves and criminal hideouts responsible for kidnappings and attacks on communities.

The latest success adds to a series of recent operations aimed at restoring security and improving public confidence in the region.

Residents of affected communities have welcomed the development, expressing hope that sustained military pressure will further weaken the activities of bandits and kidnappers.

Commending the troops, Bakatsine praised their professionalism, courage, and dedication to safeguarding lives and property despite the challenging security environment.

He noted that the commitment and sacrifices of security personnel remain critical to ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability across the North-West.

The operations highlight the continued resolve of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and other security agencies to confront criminal elements and protect communities from the growing threat of kidnapping and banditry.