Troops of Operation FANSAR YANMA (OPFY) rescued five kidnapped victims on September 7, 2025, in Malumfashi LGA of Katsina State. Security analyst Zagazola Makama confirmed the operation on X (formerly Twitter).
Terrorists had attacked Gidan Kwairo village, but soldiers from the 17 Brigade, alongside vigilantes and Keystone operatives, responded quickly.
According to Makama, terrorists invaded Gidan Kwairo village, prompting an immediate intervention by soldiers of the 17 Brigade, in collaboration with local vigilantes and Keystone operatives.
“The troops engaged the attackers, forcing them to abandon the hostages,” Makama stated.
All five victims were rescued. No casualties were reported among troops or civilians.
Eight Abducted in Zamfara Terrorist Attack
In a separate attack in Zamfara, terrorists abducted eight people in Dansadau town, Maru LGA, also on September 7.
Makama reported that the attackers wore hijabs to infiltrate the community at night. They struck on the outskirts of the town.
Troops and vigilantes pursued them but couldn’t make contact.
READ ALSO: Simon Ekpa: Inside the Legal Maze that Could Strip his Citizenship
“Troops, working together with local vigilantes, pursued the attackers but were unable to make contact,” Makama wrote.
However, during the pursuit, security forces recovered a bag containing brassieres and hijabs believed to have been used by the terrorists for their disguise.
The two incidents expose the growing threat of insecurity in Northwest Nigeria, despite ongoing counter-terrorism efforts by military forces and local security groups.
Search and Rescue Operations Ongoing
Military and local sources say search efforts continue, especially in Zamfara.
The Army has stepped up operations under OPFY, hitting terrorist hideouts and boosting community ties in Katsina and Zamfara.
READ ALSO: Bandits Kill 38 Hostages After Receiving ₦50m Ransom in Zamfara
Security analysts urge better intelligence sharing and faster response in rural areas to stem the rising tide of abductions.
