After confronting the kidnappers in a battle, troops of the Nigerian Army recovered 27 individuals, including a six-month-old baby, who had been abducted by suspected terrorists in Sabuwa Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Following reports of potential terrorist operations in the Gamji neighbourhood, soldiers from the 17 Brigade, operating under Operation FANSAN YANMA, rescued the victims on Friday, October 16, 2026.
According to security sources reported by Zagazola Makama, the village called for help at approximately 12:25 pm, and the military sent troops to the area immediately after.
At the time of the soldiers’ arrival, however, the kidnaped residents and the accused terrorists had already made their getaway into the surrounding undergrowth.
At around 6:05 pm, the suspects were apprehended by the army after they began a pursuit that followed them through Gangare Village and on to Kamba Village.
The sources added that the suspected terrorists were forced to abandon the detainees and retreat into the surrounding bushes when the military confronted them with superior weaponry.
After the fight, the soldiers searched the area and found all 27 hostages, including the baby. There were 15 men and 12 women. Initial enquiries led to the release of the rescued persons to Alhaji Falalu Suleiman, chief of the Gamji village.
Although the exact number of casualties among the fugitives could not be determined, sources indicate that no soldier was hurt or killed during the operation.
To safeguard local populations, limit the mobility of suspected terrorists, and discourage additional assaults, the military has maintained patrols throughout the region.
In order to reduce kidnappings and insecurity in the Northwest region of Nigeria, the operation shows how critical it is for locals to report suspicious activity quickly and for the military to respond quickly.