Troops ‘rescue’ five abducted women, two babies in Zamfara

Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation Hadarin Daji (OPHD) have reportedly rescued five abducted women, including two infants, from Kuyambana forest in Zamfara.

In a statement on Thursday, Suleiman Omale, information officer of the operation, said the victims were abducted from their village in Kagara area of Niger state.

Omale said the troops rescued the victims during an operation in the terrorist’s hideouts, adding that the victims had spent two months in captivity.

“Troops in a daring operation, successfully stormed Kuyambana forest in Zamfara state and succeeded in rescuing five women, two babies,” NAN quoted Omale as saying.

“They were kidnapped in January 2024 from Marange village in Kagara local government area of Niger state.

“The victims, who endured months of captivity, were liberated following the relentless offensive operations carried out by the vigilant troops in the Kuyambana area.

“The successful rescue operation came as a result of the unwavering pressure exerted on the bandits by the troops, leading to the victims’ escape from the terrorists’ enclaves.”

The information officer said the victims have been handed over to relevant authorities for reunion with their families.

“The general officer commanding 8 division of the Nigerian army Sokoto, Maj. Gen. Godwin Matkut, lauded the professionalism exhibited by the troops during the rescue operation.

“Matkut urged them to maintain the momentum until all nefarious elements are eradicated, ensuring the restoration of peace and normalcy in the region.”