By Stella Odueme
Troops of the Nigerian Army under Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued nine kidnapped persons and recovered 108 livestock during security operations in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The recovered livestock comprised 34 cows and 74 rams.
The operations were conducted around Danko and Sabon Tunga communities following reports of bandit attacks, abductions and livestock rustling.
In the first operation, troops swiftly responded to a distress call and engaged the suspected bandits, forcing them to flee and abandon their captives.
Two victims, identified as 26-year-old Barbuga Bawashe and 61-year-old Barka Dakaji, were rescued during the encounter, while the 108 livestock were recovered.
In a related operation, troops rescued seven other victims from Sabon Tunga and Binoni villages.
The victims, who reportedly spent several months in captivity, escaped from their abductors amid sustained military pressure in the area.
They were identified as Muhammad Dogonta, 60; Zakari Yahu, 32; Basara Sheu, 10; Adam Shehu, 12; Hatsat Umar, 14; Albaria Hamsu, 12; and Yehusa Lawali, 35.
The nine rescued persons have been handed over to the District Head of Unashi for onward reunion with their families.
The operation highlights the ongoing efforts by troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to dismantle criminal networks, rescue abducted persons and recover stolen property across the North-West.