Fansan Yamma Troops Crush Ambush, Rescue Two Herders
By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have foiled a terrorist ambush in Zamfara State and rescued two abducted herders while recovering 520 rustled livestock in Sokoto State, the military said on 28 October 2026.
According to a statement by Captain Tamuno Sinivie, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North West), troops of Sector 2 came under a coordinated ambush by terrorists on both sides of the Anka–Guruzu Road in Zamfara while conducting a fighting patrol to clear the route after reports of terrorist activity.
The troops responded with overwhelming firepower, fought through the ambush and inflicted heavy casualties on the terrorists, forcing them to withdraw in disarray. One soldier sustained a gunshot wound during the firefight and was promptly evacuated for medical attention. He is said to be in stable condition.
The statement said troops subsequently dominated the road and restored freedom of movement for commuters.
In a related operation on the same day, troops of Sector 2 foiled an attempt by terrorists to rustle livestock and abduct herders at Takasaba Village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State. Acting on credible intelligence, the troops mobilised to the scene and engaged the terrorists with superior firepower, forcing them to flee and abandon 520 livestock and two abducted herders.
The rescued victims were identified as Malam Sulaiman, aged 50, and Nasiru Sulaiman, aged 14. They were handed over to the Sabon Birni Local Government authorities.
The military described the operations as further proof of the resilience, combat readiness and sustained operational momentum of Operation FANSAN YAMMA in denying terrorists freedom of action, securing critical routes and protecting vulnerable communities in the North West.
The Theatre Commander, Major General WB Idris, commended the gallantry and fighting spirit of the troops and urged them to sustain the offensive against terrorist elements. He also reassured residents of the joint operations area of the military’s commitment to restoring peace and security, while encouraging the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.