SOLDIERS RESCUE 14 KIDNAPPED VICTIMS IN KATSINA

SOLDIERS RESCUE 14 KIDNAPPED VICTIMS IN KATSINA

*Nigerian soldiers successfully rescued 14 kidnapped victims, including six males and eight females, during a counter-terrorism operation in Katsina State*

KATSINA, Nigeria — Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY), have rescued 14 people who were kidnapped by terrorists in Katsina State.

The rescue operation happened on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, around Madaci Forest in Sabuwa Local Government Area.

The soldiers acted on credible intelligence about terrorists moving with kidnapped victims through the forest. Troops from Sector 2 of the operation quickly moved to the area and confronted the terrorists.

A gun battle broke out. The pressure from the soldiers forced the criminals to abandon their captives and run into nearby bushes.

After searching the area, troops found and rescued 14 victims — six males and eight females.

Initial investigations showed the victims were kidnapped from different communities in Dandume, Bakori and Funtua areas of Katsina State.

The rescued victims have been handed over to local authorities for profiling and to be reunited with their families.

Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the Media Information Officer for the operation, said the successful rescue shows the military’s commitment to protecting lives and stopping terrorists from operating freely in the North West region.

“The Theatre Command reassures the public that troops will continue to sustain pressure on terrorist elements and intensify operations to safeguard communities across the North West,” the statement said.

The military also urged the public to keep providing timely and useful information to security forces to help with ongoing operations.