Troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued five kidnapped passengers after repelling a bandit attack along the Maru–Mayanchi–Gusau road in Zamfara State.

The incident occurred around 6:40 p.m. on March 29 in Maru Local Government Area, when armed bandits ambushed two vehicles conveying commuters on the busy highway.

Security sources said one civilian was killed during the attack, while 14 passengers were initially abducted by the assailants.

Troops stationed at Forward Operating Bases in Mayanchi and Fangaltama responded promptly after receiving a distress call and moved to the scene. On arrival, they launched a pursuit of the fleeing attackers along their escape route.

Their intervention led to the rescue of five of the kidnapped victims. Among those freed were Mrs. Dami Nehemiah, identified as the wife of a serving military officer, her son, and three other passengers. The victims were reported to have sustained gunshot injuries during the incident.

The injured were subsequently evacuated to a medical facility for treatment.

Security sources added that troops have since intensified patrols in the area to forestall further attacks and enhance the safety of commuters along the route.