Troops of Fansan Yamma have foiled an attempted mass abduction and rescued nine persons, including an infant from terrorists in Unguwar Rogo Village, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

A statement on Monday by Aliyu Danja, the spokesman for the operation, said the incident occurred on Sunday.

He stated that troops received a distress call that terrorists, believed to be led by suspected kingpin Mallam Shuaibu, had infiltrated the community and attacked civilians travelling along a local route.

Mr Danja explained that preliminary intelligence indicated that the attack may have been carried out in reprisal for the recent arrest of suspected collaborators linked to the terrorist network. 

“The suspects had earlier been intercepted by troops while  attempting to procure motorcycles and Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in support of the terrorists’ activities.

“In an apparent attempt to retaliate and abduct civilians, the terrorists concealed themselves within a millet farm along the route”, he said.

Mr Danja stated that the terrorists opened fire on passing vehicles, causing some drivers to lose control and veer off the road.

He noted that troops of Sector 2 moved to the area and decisively engaged the terrorists, denying them the opportunity to carry out the abduction. 

The spokesman added that the terrorists abandoned their mission and fled into the surrounding forest.

“Troops rescued nine civilians, including an infant. Two women who sustained gunshot wounds during the terrorists’ attack were promptly evacuated for medical attention and are currently receiving treatment,” he said.