Troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, have rescued 41 travellers abducted by bandits after their commercial vehicle broke down along a highway in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The victims, comprising 24 men, 10 women and seven children, were travelling from Senegal to Kano State when the vehicle developed a mechanical fault, leaving them stranded on the highway.
According to a statement issued by the military operation on Tuesday, the bandits seized the opportunity to attack the stranded travellers and attempted to move them into the surrounding area.
The troops, acting on actionable intelligence, swiftly mobilised to the scene and engaged the armed group.
The military said its superior firepower forced the bandits to abandon the victims and flee into nearby farmlands.
“All 41 victims were successfully rescued unharmed,” the statement said.
The rescued travellers are currently receiving necessary support and are expected to be reunited with their families and transit authorities.
The operation said troops had maintained an active presence in the area to protect travellers and continue the pursuit of the fleeing suspects.
The rescue comes amid ongoing military operations across the North-West aimed at disrupting bandit activities and improving security along major highways.
