By Instacool News Desk | October 23, 2026

Nigerian troops have rescued four kidnapped victims during separate security operations in Zamfara and Kebbi states, as military forces continue efforts to tackle kidnapping and armed violence across the North-West.

The rescues were carried out on Wednesday, October 21, by troops of Sector 2 of Operation Fansan Yamma, according to reports citing the Nigerian Army. Two victims were rescued in Zamfara State, while two others regained their freedom in Kebbi State.

Two victims rescued in Zamfara

In Zamfara State, troops rescued Mansur Shehu, 25, and Kadijat Haruna, 49, from farmland in Binoni Marafa, Maru Local Government Area.

The military said the operation followed information about a reported terrorist incident involving the victims. Troops responded to the report and carried out the rescue.

Search operation leads to two rescues in Kebbi

In a separate operation in Kebbi State, troops rescued Jimoh Su-Arege, 35, and Kalahe Danjuma, 41, along the Bena–Sawade axis.

According to military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the operation followed reports that suspected terrorists were moving with kidnapped victims from Dipindu village in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area.

Troops launched a search-and-rescue operation that led to the recovery of the two victims. They were subsequently handed over to the Seriki of Dipindu, a traditional community leader.

Military intensifies security operations

The Army said troops had intensified patrols and surveillance across their areas of responsibility to restrict the movement of armed groups and help prevent further attacks.

The latest rescues form part of ongoing military operations against kidnapping and other security threats affecting communities across Nigeria’s North-West.

However, the military reports did not provide further details about when the four victims were originally abducted or whether any suspects were arrested during the operations.

Although the rescues represent a positive development for the affected families, the wider security challenge remains significant. Sustained security operations, reliable intelligence and cooperation between local communities and security agencies remain important in efforts to protect residents from further abductions.

Source: PUNCH Nigeria | Vanguard