Troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, have rescued 41 travellers who were reportedly abducted by bandits after their commercial vehicle developed a mechanical fault along a highway in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The rescued victims included “24 males, 10 females and seven children.”
In a statement issued by the operation on Tuesday, the military said the vehicle was travelling from Senegal to Kano State when it broke down along the highway, leaving the passengers stranded.
The statement explained that the bandits exploited the situation and attempted to take the passengers into the surrounding area.
It added that the intervention of the troops compelled the bandits to abandon the travellers and escape into nearby farmlands.
The rescued passengers are currently being provided with the necessary assistance and are expected to be reunited with their families and relevant transit authorities.
The operation said its troops have continued to maintain a strong presence in the area to safeguard travellers and track the fleeing suspects.
The rescue comes as military forces continue sustained operations across the North-West, targeting bandit activities and working to secure communities and major highways used by travellers.
