The Nigerian Navy has successfully rescued eight kidnapped victims during a series of coordinated operations under “Operation FASAN YAMMA” in the North West region, marking a significant stride in the fight against insurgency. The operations, carried out between April 2 and April 18, 2026, involved naval personnel stationed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibira and other tactical units in Kaduna State and surrounding areas. Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the Naval spokesperson, confirmed the successful missions in a statement, highlighting the swift response and tactical precision of the troops.
On April 18, naval forces at FOB Ibira received a distress call reporting gunfire along the Doka–Ibira axis. Upon arrival, they encountered armed extremists who immediately opened fire. The navy personnel responded with force, repelling the attackers and forcing them to flee, leaving behind five kidnapped victims. Four of the rescued individuals sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to the General Hospital in Idon for emergency medical care. Unfortunately, one victim succumbed to injuries despite medical efforts.
Following the initial engagement, clearance operations were conducted to ensure the area was secure and to track down fleeing insurgents. These efforts were part of the navy’s broader strategy to stabilize the region and prevent further attacks. In another incident on April 2, troops from the 2 National Mission Force Brigade, acting on credible intelligence, ambushed insurgents in Anguwan Haske. The operation resulted in the neutralization of one insurgent and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle. No navy personnel were injured during the encounter.
Additionally, naval forces at FOB Dokan Karji responded to a distress call from Kushere Village, where armed men had abducted local residents. The troops engaged the attackers in a gunfight, successfully rescuing three victims without any injuries. The operations underscore the Nigerian Navy’s increasing involvement in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency activities, particularly in high-risk zones across the North West.
Captain Folorunsho emphasized that these successes reflect the navy’s commitment to protecting civilians and maintaining security in the region. The operations also demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-driven tactics and rapid response mechanisms. As the navy continues to expand its operational reach, its role in safeguarding communities from insurgent threats is becoming more critical than ever. The rescue of eight victims is a testament to the navy’s growing capacity and determination to combat insecurity in Nigeria’s vulnerable northern regions.
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