By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, foiled a mass abduction attempt in Unguwar Rogo, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, Zamfara State, after terrorists attacked commuters, blocked roads and abducted three people, while troops rescued nine victims and continued pursuing the attackers.
Troops Foil Mass Abduction Attempt in Zamfara
The terrorists reportedly stormed Unguwar Rogo and blocked roads used by commuters. They then attacked travellers and attempted to abduct several victims.
However, troops quickly responded after receiving a distress call about the attack.
Their intervention helped prevent a larger abduction. The soldiers also rescued at least nine people during the operation.
However, the attackers reportedly escaped with three victims before troops arrived.
Two female victims also sustained gunshot wounds during the attack. They are currently receiving medical treatment.
Bandit Kingpin Malan Shuaibu Linked to Attack
Sources said fighters loyal to notorious bandit kingpin Malan Shuaibu carried out the attack.
The attack allegedly followed recent security operations against the group and its collaborators.
Security forces recently arrested seven suspected informants and logistics suppliers linked to Shuaibu.
The suspects allegedly helped the terrorists obtain supplies and transfer ransom payments.
A community resident said the arrests may have triggered the latest attack.
“The security forces arrested seven people who were informants and those who sent ransom money to them through POS,” the resident said.
According to him, one of Shuaibu’s associates allegedly planned the mass abduction in retaliation.
Terrorists Used Farmland as Ambush Point
Another resident said the attackers used nearby farmland to conceal themselves.
The vegetation reportedly provided cover for the terrorists as they waited for commuters.
Security agencies had previously advised farmers against growing tall crops near major roads.
However, some farmers allegedly ignored the directive.
The attackers reportedly targeted vehicles that lost control during the assault.
They then attempted to abduct occupants who fled into nearby bushes.
Seven Suspected Terrorist Collaborators Arrested
A resident said security forces arrested seven people suspected of assisting the terrorists.
The suspects allegedly included individuals who facilitated ransom payments through Point of Sale, POS, agents.
Some suspects also allegedly helped the group obtain motorcycles and Premium Motor Spirit, PMS.
The arrests reportedly angered Shuaibu and his associates.
Consequently, the terrorists allegedly planned the attack as a reprisal operation.
Troops Continue Search for Fleeing Terrorists
Following the attack, troops continued operations around the affected communities.
The soldiers are tracking the fleeing terrorists and working to dismantle their support network.
They are also seeking to prevent further attacks against communities and road users.
Meanwhile, security sources said troops remain active across the area.
The military has yet to release its official statement on the incident.
Police Yet to Confirm Zamfara Attack
Efforts to obtain confirmation from Zamfara State Police Command spokesperson DSP Yazid Abubakar were unsuccessful.
However, military officials confirmed that a statement on the incident was being prepared.
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, confirmed the development.
The Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, also confirmed the ongoing process.
Both officers said an official press release would follow.
