TROOPS RESCUE 106 HOSTAGES IN ZAMFARA, CAPTURE NOTORIOUS TERROR LEADER MAMIYO

By: Muftau Fatimo
In a major stride in the fight against terrorism and banditry, troops of Operation Fasin Yamma have successfully rescued 106 kidnapped victims following a raid on a terrorist hideout in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, according to a statement from the Defence Headquarters on Friday.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, stated that the operation was part of a wider, coordinated series of military offensives nationwide. He also revealed that on July 20, 2025, an additional 32 kidnapped victims comprising 27 adult women and 5 children were released to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) by the terrorists, following continued non-kinetic interventions.
In a separate operation, troops in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) captured notorious terrorist leader Muhammadu Hamisu, also known as Mamiyo, along with five of his associates in Zamfara and Sokoto States. During the raids, security forces recovered weapons, motorcycles, illicit drugs, logistics supplies, and ₦192,300 in cash.
Major General Markus Kangye outlined a series of coordinated operations conducted between July 16 and 22, 2025, across the North West, North East, North Central, South South, and South East zones. These efforts led to the arrest of over 250 suspects, the rescue of more than 160 kidnapped victims, and the seizure of large quantities of arms, ammunition, and vehicles.
Operational Highlights:
North West & North East: Troops neutralized dozens of terrorists and rescued several hostages in Borno, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Adamawa States. Numerous terrorists and their collaborators were arrested, while several improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were safely dismantled.
Niger Delta: Under Operation Delta Safe, troops disrupted oil theft activities worth over ₦241.2 million, dismantled 14 illegal refineries, and apprehended 237 suspected oil thieves. Weapons and other operational equipment were also recovered.
South East: Troops of Operation Udoka arrested seven suspected kidnappers and rescued a minor being trafficked from Taraba to Anambra State.
North Central: Operations in Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, and Taraba States led to the arrest of criminal elements, recovery of arms, and rescue of additional kidnapped victims. In Kogi State, a gunrunner and a terrorist informant were captured.
Federal Capital Territory: Troops apprehended five suspected criminals in the Abaji and Gwagwalada Area Councils, recovering weapons and other illicit items in their possession.
The Defence Headquarters also confirmed the surrender of several Boko Haram and ISWAP members—along with women and children in Borno and Yobe States, as intensified military operations continue to apply pressure in the region.
“These operations are carefully planned to protect our citizens and restore peace,” stated Major General Markus Kangye. “Our troops continue to demonstrate outstanding bravery, professionalism, and commitment in confronting evolving security threats.”The military reiterated its unwavering dedication to national security and urged the public to maintain cooperation in the effort to rid the country of criminal elements.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain firm in defending the sovereignty and stability of our nation,” Kangye added. “We deeply value the resilience and support of the Nigerian people and our partners—we will not back down.”
