Nigerian army rescues 18 kidnapped victims in Northwest operations

In a series of successful operations, the Joint Task Force Northwest Operation HADARIN DAJI, under the command of Major General Godwin Mutkut, General Officer Commanding 8 Division Nigerian Army, has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of citizens in the Northwest region.

On the 9th of September 2023, troops deployed across Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, and Sokoto states successfully rescued 18 kidnapped victims, restoring hope to affected communities.

The first operation took place at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Anka Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara State. During a daring confrontation with armed bandits along the Anka – Baggega Road, troops managed to rescue five kidnapped victims who had been seized while transporting goods to Baggega Market in Anka LGA.

In a parallel mission, troops stationed at FOB Hannutara, also in Zamfara State, rescued two victims who had been kidnapped from their farm lands.

The captors abandoned them upon spotting the approaching troops during a routine patrol.

Responding to a distress call from the local population regarding armed bandit activities in Danfanmi village, Kaura Namoda LGA, troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI swiftly mobilized to the area, resulting in the rescue of three additional victims.

Notably, on the 8th of September 2023, troops from FOB Baggega in Zamfara State, while conducting a fighting patrol, intercepted and rescued six kidnapped victims who had managed to escape from their captors in Gando forest.

Preliminary investigations revealed that “these victims have endured ten weeks in captivity after being abducted from Mahuta community in Kebbi State.”

In a separate operation, troops deployed at Tsafe LGA in Zamfara State rescued two females who had fallen victim to a late-night bandit invasion of their community.

Following their rescue, the females were promptly transported to General Hospital Tsafe for necessary medical attention.

All rescued victims have been handed over to the appropriate authorities to facilitate their reunification with their families, offering a glimmer of hope and relief to their loved ones.

Major General Godwin Mutkut, Commander of the Joint Task Force Northwest Operation HADARIN DAJI, and General Officer Commanding 8 Division Nigerian Army, expressed his profound appreciation for the tireless efforts, resilience, and rapid response of the troops in rescuing the victims.

He also acknowledged the invaluable support of the Northwest community, who provided timely information to aid the operations. General Mutkut reiterated the troops’ unwavering commitment and dedication to ensuring the security of the region’s inhabitants, underscoring the importance of collective efforts in achieving this vital mission.