Terrorists flee as troops rescue 10 kidnap victims in fierce Sokoto gun battle

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued 10 kidnapped victims after a gun battle with suspected terrorists in Gandi Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The development was disclosed by Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency and security analyst covering the Lake Chad region.

According to the report, the rescue operation was carried out at about 5:00pm. on July 20 by troops of the 1 Brigade stationed at the Forward Operating Base, FOB, Gandi, in collaboration with members of the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps.

The report stated that the security team acted on actionable intelligence regarding the movement of suspected terrorists and intercepted them at Badanma village.

During the operation, troops engaged the suspected kidnappers in a firefight, forcing them to flee under heavy gunfire.

“The superior firepower of the security team forced the terrorists to flee, abandoning 10 kidnapped victims who were being held captive,” the report stated.

According to the report, all 10 victims were rescued unharmed and evacuated to safety, while troops immediately launched a pursuit operation to track down the fleeing suspects.

Makama said security personnel have intensified efforts to apprehend the suspected terrorists and dismantle their hideouts as part of ongoing operations against kidnapping and banditry across Sokoto State.

The report further noted that the operation reflects the growing collaboration between the Nigerian Army and the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps in efforts to improve security and protect vulnerable communities under Operation FANSAN YAMMA.