A routine journey from Senegal to Kano State nearly turned tragic after a vehicle breakdown exposed 41 travellers to a suspected abduction attempt along a highway in Zamfara State, but troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA arrived in time to rescue them.
In a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Sector 2, the Nigerian Army said troops responded to intelligence about the incident and engaged the attackers, forcing them to abandon the passengers and escape into nearby farmlands.
The travellers, made up of 24 men, 10 women and seven children, were stranded in Tsafe Local Government Area when armed men reportedly moved in and attempted to abduct them.
The troops of Sector 2 quickly mobilised to the location and prevented the attackers from carrying out their plan.
The Nigerian Army said all 41 passengers were rescued unharmed and are currently receiving support before being reunited with their families and transit authorities.
The Army also disclosed that troops have maintained their presence in the area to protect other road users and continue efforts to track down the fleeing suspects.
The incident has drawn attention to the risks faced by travellers using routes affected by insecurity, where unexpected situations such as vehicle breakdowns can increase their vulnerability.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA has continued its security operations across the North-West region, with troops working to safeguard communities and travellers from criminal activities.