KEBBI : TROOPS FREE 9 HOSTAGES RETRIEVE 108 RUSTLED LIVESTOCK
No fewer than nine kidnapped victims and 108 rustled livestock have been rescued by troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Fansan Yamma, during separate operations in the Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The military disclosed in a statement on Wednesday that the troops responded to a distress call regarding an invasion of communities in the Danko general area by suspected bandits, who had reportedly kidnapped residents and rustled cattle.
Upon receiving the alert, the troops immediately mobilised to the affected area and engaged the suspected bandits in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to flee and abandon their captives.
Following the encounter, the troops rescued two kidnapped victims, identified as 26-year-old Barbuga Bawashe and 61-year-old Barka Dakaji. The troops also recovered 34 cows and 74 rams during the operation.
Meanwhile, seven other victims who had reportedly spent several months in captivity managed to escape from their abductors amid the sustained military operations in the area.
The escaped victims include Muhammad Dogonta, 60; Zakari Yahu, 32; Basara Sheu, 10; Adam Shehu, 12; Hatsat Umar, 14; Albaria Hamsu, 12; and Yehusa Lawali, 35.
The statement added that all the rescued victims have been handed over to the District Head of Unashi for onward reunification with their families.
According to the military, these operations are part of ongoing efforts by troops of Operation Fansan Yamma to sustain pressure on criminal elements and restore security across the North-West region.
It will be recalled that Kebbi State has faced recurring attacks by armed bandits, including kidnappings, killings, and cattle rustling, particularly in communities bordering neighbouring states.
These security challenges have prompted sustained military operations in the North-West, where troops continue to target armed groups and rescue abducted residents.
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