41 travellers rescued as troops avert kidnap attempt in Zamfara

Troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, have rescued 41 travellers who were abducted after their vehicle broke down along a major highway in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

In a Tuesday statement, the military said troops acted promptly and decisively to avert a major kidnap attempt.

According to the statement shared by the Nigerian Army on Facebook, preliminary reports indicated that a commercial vehicle travelling from Senegal to Kano State developed a mechanical fault along the highway.

The military said bandits took advantage of the situation to target the stranded vehicle and attempted to move the occupants into the surrounding area.

Acting on actionable intelligence, troops swiftly mobilised to the scene.

Upon arrival, security forces reportedly engaged the armed group with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon the hostages and flee into nearby farmlands.

All 41 victims, comprising 24 males, 10 females and seven children, were successfully rescued unharmed.

The military said the rescued individuals are currently receiving necessary support and will be reunited with their families and transit authorities shortly.

Troops are said to be currently maintaining an active presence in the area to ensure the safety of travellers and apprehend the fleeing suspects.