NAF Pounds Terrorist Hideouts in Sokoto, Troops Rescue 22 Kidnapped Victims

The Nigerian Air Force, operating under the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma, has conducted sustained precision strikes against terrorist strongholds in the North-West, targeting criminal enclaves between June 18 and 19, 2026, in a coordinated effort that also facilitated the rescue of 22 kidnapped victims in Sokoto State.

The Air Force spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed that NAF aircraft struck a confirmed terrorist stronghold within the Joint Operations Area and carried out an intelligence-led mission around Kidandan, where air assets neutralised armed fighters after tracking their movements.

Follow-up reconnaissance over Fatika and Sabuwa confirmed the absence of further terrorist activity, while sustained aerial surveillance continued in support of ground forces.

On the ground, troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma, rescued 22 victims in separate operations conducted in Sabon Birni and Isa Local Government Areas of Sokoto State.

The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, disclosed that the first incident occurred on June 18, when troops received credible intelligence that terrorists had blocked the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road at Kura Mota Village and attacked two civilian vehicles.

“During the attack, the terrorists abducted several passengers and reportedly killed one civilian,” Danja explained. “Troops swiftly mobilised to the scene and, with support from aerial surveillance, launched a coordinated pursuit operation against the attackers.

The sustained pressure mounted by the troops forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and flee. As a result, 17 kidnapped passengers were rescued and handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action”.

In a related operation on the same day, troops responded to a distress call from Chohi Village, where armed terrorists had attempted to abduct farmers working on their farmlands.

Danja said security personnel rapidly deployed to the area and pursued the terrorists along their escape route, leading to the “successful rescue of five kidnapped farmers, who were subsequently reunited with their families”.

Following the rescue operations, troops conducted confidence-building patrols in nearby communities, including Gidan Rana and Gidan Sale villages, to reassure residents, strengthen security presence, and prevent further terrorist activities.

Danja reaffirmed the determination of Operation Fansan Yamma to sustain offensive and rescue operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and restoring lasting peace across the North-West region.

“These successful rescue operations underscore the unwavering commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to protecting the lives and property of the citizenry, safeguarding vulnerable communities and creating a secure environment for citizens to pursue their lawful daily activities without fear,” he said.