Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 22 kidnapped persons following two separate operations in Sabon Birni and Isa Local Government Areas of Sokoto State, thwarting terrorist attacks and forcing the assailants to abandon their captives.

The successful missions were confirmed on Saturday by the operation’s Media Information Officer, Lt.-Col. Aliyu Danja, who said the interventions were carried out following credible intelligence and distress calls from affected communities.

According to Danja, the first operation took place on June 18 after troops received reports that terrorists had blocked the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road near Kura Mota Village, attacked two civilian vehicles, and abducted several passengers.

Troops immediately mobilised to the area and launched a coordinated pursuit operation backed by aerial surveillance. The sustained pressure reportedly forced the attackers to abandon their hostages and flee.

As a result, 17 kidnapped passengers were rescued and handed over to the appropriate authorities for further assistance.

Despite the successful rescue, Danja disclosed that one civilian lost his life during the attack before security forces arrived.

In a separate operation on the same day, troops responded to reports of terrorists attempting to abduct farmers working in Chohi Village.

Security personnel rapidly deployed to the area and pursued the fleeing gunmen along their escape route, successfully rescuing five farmers, who were later reunited with their families.

Following the operations, troops conducted confidence-building patrols in nearby communities, including Gidan Rana and Gidan Sale, to reassure residents, strengthen security presence, and prevent further terrorist activities.

Danja said the operations underscore the military’s continued commitment to protecting lives and property while sustaining pressure on criminal elements operating across the region.