By Samuel Ike, Abuja

Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have rescued seven kidnap victims in Katsina State and recovered a large herd of cattle allegedly rustled from residents in Sokoto State.

The Nigerian Army said the rescue operation was conducted by troops of Sector 2 of Operation Fansan Yamma along the Daye–Malumfashi Road in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State.

According to the Army, the troops were mobilised following a distress call received on the evening of September 21, 2026, reporting an attack on a commercial vehicle travelling from Kaduna to Katsina. The troops reportedly arrived at the scene promptly, forcing the attackers to abandon their victims and flee.

The Army said the rescued victims comprised six female students of the Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, and a male commercial driver. All seven victims were reportedly rescued unhurt.

It added that the victims were subsequently subjected to security screening and provided with medical attention before being handed over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families and the university authorities.

In a separate operation in Sokoto State, troops of the same sector reportedly foiled an attempt by terrorists to escape with a large number of cattle allegedly rustled from residents of Asarara Kaura community in Kebbe Local Government Area.

The Army said the operation followed credible intelligence indicating that armed terrorists had invaded the community, terrorised residents and seized livestock. Acting on the intelligence, troops moved swiftly to intercept the attackers and prevent them from taking the cattle out of the area.

The troops subsequently intercepted the fleeing terrorists along the Tambuwal–Gadaichi–Gummi Road. According to the Army, the terrorists opened fire after sighting the troops, resulting in an exchange of gunfire.

The Army said the troops eventually overwhelmed the attackers through superior firepower and tactical manoeuvres, forcing them to retreat into the surrounding bushes. Some of the terrorists were believed to have sustained gunshot wounds, while the cattle were abandoned.

The recovered livestock have been placed in military custody pending the completion of arrangements to identify and return them to their rightful owners.

The Army said the successful intervention provided relief to residents of Asarara Kaura and neighbouring communities, who expressed appreciation for the troops’ prompt response and efforts to protect lives and property.