Military Saves 11 Kidnapped People in Kebbi

Troops from Operation Fansan Yamma have saved 11 kidnapped people in two different operations in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The rescue happened during military actions on October 30 and 31, 2026. This followed clashes between troops and suspected bandits and terrorists in the area.

Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, the spokesman for the 8 Division in Sokoto, shared this news in a statement on Sunday.

Osoba explained that the first operation started after a distress call. The call reported that armed bandits had blocked a road to Ribah town and tried to attack the community.

Troops sent to the area found that some residents had been kidnapped. They also saw abandoned motorcycles at the scene. The troops chased after the attackers and engaged them in a gun battle, making the gunmen flee and leave behind seven kidnapped victims.

“Troops immediately pursued the bandits and exchanged fire with them, forcing them to abandon seven kidnapped victims,” the statement said.

The rescued victims are Sa’adu Bala, Dantani Yahyi, Nura Musa, Nasiru Muhammad, Abdulakeem Abubakar, Abdulahi Maikudi, and Zaki Gom. The military said the victims are now back with their families.

Separate Operation in Wasagu

In another operation near Wasagu, Osoba said troops on routine patrol were attacked by suspected terrorists. The soldiers fought back, forcing the attackers to leave behind four kidnapped victims.

He noted that these victims had been taken from their farms in Wasagu village before the troops arrived. “The troops responded decisively, forcing the terrorists to flee and abandon four victims who had earlier been abducted from their farms,” he added.

The four rescued victims are Lawali Ali, Samaila Shuaibu, Kasimu Shuaibu, and Aliyu Bala, all from Wasagu village. They were handed over to the community head after their rescue.

The military has promised to keep fighting against bandits and other criminals. They assured residents that they will continue to work hard to protect lives and property. “The troops remain committed to the safety and security of all communities in the area and will continue to respond promptly to security threats,” the statement added.