Two abducted women found in Zamfara forest during military sweeps

Troops belonging to Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued two kidnapped women while conducting coordinated clearance sweeps targeting terrorist and bandit enclaves in Bukkuyum and Anka Local Government Areas of Zamfara State. The Acting Commander of 1 Brigade, Col. J. Umaru, led the operation, which focused on suspected terrorist hideouts near the Gizaza axis and Gando Forest. The mission formed part of efforts to disrupt criminal networks, protect major transport routes and restore residents' confidence. According to security sources, the troops carried out clearance operations in Guruso, Nassarawa, Barayazaki, Masama Mudi, Tunganyara and Gwashi communities. The advancing forces reportedly caused the terrorists to abandon their hideouts in disarray as the military continued clearing the affected areas. While operating along the Gando Forest corridor, the troops found and rescued two abducted women, identified as Ikilima Sani, 20, and Shamsiyya Aliyu, 18. The rescued victims were secured by the troops after they were discovered. The military said its troops have continued to maintain strategic dominance over key transit routes and suspected criminal corridors through aggressive patrols. It said the aim is to prevent further attacks and allow residents and commuters to carry out their lawful activities safely.