Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 33 passengers abducted by terrorists along a route in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The Zamfara passengers rescued were reportedly abducted while travelling through Magazu Village before troops of the 1 Brigade, Forward Operating Base, FOB Tsafe, intervened. The Nigerian Army said the operation took place at about 8:15 a.m. on August 8, 2026, following credible intelligence about the abduction.
According to the Army, the troops immediately mobilised to the area after receiving information that terrorists were moving the victims to an undisclosed location. The soldiers subsequently made contact with the terrorists and engaged them in an operation aimed at freeing the abducted passengers. Faced with the military response, the terrorists reportedly abandoned the victims and fled into adjoining bushes.
The troops then secured all 33 passengers and moved them to safety for further necessary action. The Zamfara passengers rescued were later taken under military protection as soldiers continued operations around the area. Following the successful intervention, the troops conducted an exploitation of the surrounding terrain while pursuing the fleeing terrorists.
The Army said no troop casualty was recorded during the operation. The latest rescue comes amid continuing security concerns along vulnerable routes in Zamfara State, where terrorists and other criminal groups have repeatedly targeted travellers and rural communities.
The operation also highlights the role of intelligence-led military intervention in responding to abductions and protecting civilians travelling through high-risk areas. The Zamfara passengers rescued during the operation were among the latest victims to be freed through military action in the state.
The Nigerian Army said the operation reflects its continued commitment to protecting civilians, disrupting terrorist activities and rescuing persons held captive by criminal elements. It added that troops would continue to maintain pressure on fleeing terrorists while strengthening security along vulnerable routes across Zamfara State.
