Troops of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have recorded fresh operational successes in Kaduna and Sokoto states, arresting a suspected illicit drug dealer, foiling a terrorist attack and rescuing two kidnapped victims.
The operations took place separately on September 12 and 13, 2026, according to a statement issued on Monday by the JTF Media Information Officer, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja.
In Kaduna State, troops from Sector 1 intercepted a man identified as Yohana Musa during a stop-and-search operation along the Kaduna–Birnin Gwari Road on September 12.
According to Danja, the suspect was allegedly found in possession of a large quantity of illicit drugs and other substances while travelling towards Birnin Gwari.
“The suspect and recovered items are currently in troops’ custody for further investigation,” Danja said.
Meanwhile, troops of Sector 2 in Sokoto State responded to a distress call after terrorists attacked Unguwan Lalle in Sabon Birni Local Government Area on September 13.
The troops engaged the attackers, forcing them to retreat and successfully rescuing two kidnapped victims during the operation.
“Troops made contact with the terrorists, engaging them with firepower and forcing them to withdraw in disarray, rescuing two kidnapped victims in the process,” he said.
Danja said troops later received intelligence that the terrorists were attempting to regroup and immediately moved to the reported location.
“Troops swiftly mobilised to the location, where they re-established contact and engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to withdraw,” Danja said.
Following the operation, troops searched the area and recovered 157 rounds of PKT ammunition, phone batteries and other items believed to be relevant to the investigation.
The JTF said the latest operations demonstrated its continued efforts to disrupt terrorist activities and restrict the movement of criminal elements across the North-West.
Danja also disclosed that the Theatre Commander praised the troops for their “gallantry and professionalism” in maintaining the recent operational successes.
The commander, he said, “remains resolute in denying terrorists and criminal elements freedom of action across the Joint Operations Area.”
The JTF also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by sharing credible and timely intelligence that could assist ongoing operations.
“Members of the public are urged to continue providing timely and credible information to security forces in support of ongoing operations,” Danja said.
