The Nigerian Air Force NAF has intensified air operations against terrorists and bandit groups in the North-West, carrying out precision strikes on identified criminal hideouts between June 18 and 19, 2026. The operations under the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma disrupted criminal activities and aided the rescue of 22 kidnapped persons in Sokoto State.
NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the operations included attacks on a confirmed terrorist stronghold and an intelligence-led mission around Kidandan, where air assets tracked and engaged armed fighters, successfully neutralising them.
He explained that follow-up surveillance missions over Fatika and Sabuwa detected no signs of renewed terrorist activity, while continued aerial monitoring provided support for ground troops carrying out clearance operations.
On the ground, troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, rescued 22 victims from separate kidnap incidents in Sabon Birni and Isa Local Government Areas of Sokoto State. According to the operation’s Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, troops were mobilised after receiving reports that terrorists had ambushed travellers along the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road near Kura Mota Village, abducting passengers from two vehicles.
Supported by aerial reconnaissance, security personnel tracked the attackers and maintained sustained pressure, forcing them to abandon 17 captives before fleeing into nearby areas. One civilian was killed during the attack before troops arrived.
In a separate operation at Chohi Village in Isa Local Government Area, troops responded swiftly to an attempted abduction of farmers working on their farmlands.
A rapid pursuit of the fleeing terrorists resulted in the successful rescue of five victims, who were later reunited with their families.
Lieutenant Colonel Danja said the successes reflected the military’s determination to safeguard communities and deny criminal elements freedom of action.
“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,” Danja stated.
Following the operations, troops carried out confidence-building patrols across neighbouring communities, including Gidan Rana and Gidan Sale villages, to reassure residents, strengthen security presence and prevent further terrorist activities in the area.
The military assured residents of Sokoto and neighbouring states of its resolve to sustain ongoing operations aimed at dismantling criminal enclaves, securing farmlands and highways, and restoring lasting peace across the region.
