Troops rescue federal polytechnic rector, foil multiple kidnap attempts in Zamfara

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda, Dr. Aminu Yusuf, and foiled multiple kidnap attempts during coordinated operations in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Military sources told Zagazola Makama, that the operations were launched following credible intelligence and a series of distress calls indicating coordinated attacks by armed terrorists on several communities in the area.

According to the sources, troops intercepted a large group of terrorists riding motorcycles as they advanced towards Tsohon-Tasha Street after attacking the residence of the rector.

The attackers reportedly forced their way into the residence, killed the rector’s private security guard, Malam Isah Bello, 46, and injured another guard, Sharhabilu Haruna, 35, before attempting to abduct Dr. Yusuf, his wife and their two children.

“Troops responded swiftly, engaged the terrorists with superior firepower and forced them to abandon the victims before fleeing the scene,” a military source said.

The sources confirmed that the rector and his family were rescued unharmed during the operation.

In a related operation, troops on patrol responded to another distress call from Tungan Dorawa Community in Barkeji Village, where armed kidnappers were attempting to abduct residents.

Although difficult terrain initially slowed the troops’ advance, they pursued the fleeing suspects, engaged them and successfully foiled the abduction attempt.

“The swift response of the troops disrupted the kidnappers’ plans and prevented another successful abduction in the community,” the source added.

During simultaneous operations within the same community, troops confronted another group of kidnappers and rescued a 56-year-old businessman, Alhaji Azaria, along with 21 other civilians who had been abducted from neighbouring houses.

All the rescued victims were reported to be safe and are receiving the necessary support.

The operation at Tsohon-Tasha Street also led to the arrest of a suspected informant, Falalu Yusuf, 45, who is alleged to have provided intelligence to the terrorists on the movements and location of the victims.

The suspect has been handed over to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Kaura Namoda for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The authorities also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing security operations.