Nigerian Army Rescues Mother, Infant and Three Other Abducted Females in Katsina Forest Operation.

Nigerian Army Rescues Mother, Infant and Three Other Abducted Females in Katsina Forest Operation.

Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued five abducted female victims, including a mother and her infant, during a security operation around Madaci Forest in Sabuwa Local Government Area of Katsina State.

According to reports published on October 1, 2026, the operation followed intelligence concerning the movement of suspected terrorists around the forest. Troops reportedly mobilized to the area and carried out tactical manoeuvres that disrupted the movement of the armed group, creating an opportunity for the captives to be rescued.

The rescued victims reportedly comprised a mother and her infant, alongside three other females described in reports as minors and young adults. The victims were said to be from the Danja and Funtua areas of Katsina State. Following the operation, they were handed over to the Chairman of Bakori Local Government Area, Abubakar Musa, to facilitate their reunification with their families.

The latest rescue comes amid continuing military operations against kidnapping and other armed criminal activities across Katsina and the wider North-West. Madaci Forest has previously featured in military operations targeting groups moving with abducted victims. In August 2026, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA rescued 14 kidnapped persons in the same Sabuwa area after responding to intelligence about terrorists moving with captives around Madaci Forest.

The repeated operations in the area underline the security challenges facing communities across parts of Katsina, where forested terrain has been used by armed groups as routes and temporary hideouts. Military authorities have continued to emphasize intelligence led operations and cooperation with local communities as important components of efforts to restrict the activities and movement of armed groups.

Following the latest rescue, troops reportedly intensified patrols around the area to maintain security presence and limit the movement of suspected terrorists. Reports did not provide details on when the five victims were abducted, how long they had remained in captivity, or whether any suspects were arrested during the operation.

The rescue adds to ongoing security efforts in the North-West, where military and other security agencies continue to conduct operations aimed at protecting civilians, recovering abducted persons and disrupting armed criminal networks.