Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued nine kidnapped victims, recovered 56 rustled livestock and arrested a suspected terrorist during separate intelligence-led operations in Katsina State.

The military said the operations were carried out across different parts of the state as part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and other criminal activities in the North-West.

During a fighting patrol in Faskari Local Government Area, troops from Sector 2 rescued nine kidnap victims comprising three women, four men and two children.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the victims were abducted on July 9 along the Tsafe–Kuchere Road in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

According to the military, the victims told troops they escaped from their captors after the terrorists fell asleep before they were intercepted and rescued during the patrol.

The rescued victims are currently in safe custody and are undergoing necessary procedures before being reunited with their families.

In a separate operation in Bakori Local Government Area, troops responded to intelligence indicating that suspected terrorists were attempting to rustle livestock.

The suspects reportedly opened fire on the advancing troops but fled into nearby bushes after being overwhelmed by superior firepower.

The operation led to the recovery of 56 rustled animals, comprising four cattle and 52 sheep, which are being held pending their handover to the appropriate authorities.

Meanwhile, troops also arrested a suspected terrorist during routine operations in Danmusa Local Government Area.

The military said preliminary examination of items recovered from the suspect suggested possible links to terrorist activities. The suspect remains in military custody as investigations continue.