Nigerian troops have successfully foiled a kidnapping attempt and rescued 22 abducted civilians during coordinated operations in Sokoto State.

The operations were carried out by troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, following swift responses to intelligence reports and distress calls from affected communities.

According to the military, the first incident occurred along the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi road at Kura Mota village, where armed terrorists blocked the highway, attacked two civilian vehicles, and abducted several passengers.

Security forces were immediately mobilised to the scene, launching a coordinated pursuit operation supported by aerial surveillance and sustained pressure on the attackers.

“The prompt response and sustained pressure mounted by the troops forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and flee. Consequently, 17 kidnapped passengers were successfully rescued and subsequently handed over to the appropriate authorities for necessary action,” the statement said.

In a separate operation in Isa Local Government Area, troops also responded to another attack in Chohi village, where armed men attempted to abduct farmers working on their farmlands.

“Upon receipt of the distress call, troops rapidly deployed to the area and pursued the fleeing terrorists along their withdrawal route,” the military said.

“The aggressive pursuit led to the successful rescue of five kidnapped farmers, who were thereafter reunited with their families.”

Following the operations, troops conducted confidence-building patrols in surrounding communities, including Gidan Rana and Gidan Sale villages, aimed at reassuring residents and denying criminal elements freedom of movement.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustained counter-terrorism and anti-kidnapping operations, adding that it will continue to protect civilians and restore stability across the region.

Authorities said efforts are ongoing to track down remaining members of the criminal networks responsible for the attacks.