The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the release of 148 kidnapped victims who had been held captive in forest hideouts in Zamfara State by armed terrorists operating in the North-West region.
The victims were released on Friday after sustained pressure mounted by troops during coordinated operations across several troubled communities in the state.
The military said the intense offensives disrupted the activities of the criminal groups and forced them to abandon their captives.
A senior military official explained that security forces had intensified ground and aerial assaults on terrorist camps located deep inside the forests, leading to the rescue and release of the abducted persons.
The victims reportedly included women, children and elderly residents who were abducted during separate attacks on rural communities.
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The Defence Headquarters stated that many of the rescued victims had already been reunited with their families, while others were receiving medical attention and psychological support after enduring difficult conditions in captivity.
Military authorities reiterated their commitment to sustaining operations against terrorists, bandits and other armed groups terrorising communities in Zamfara and neighbouring states.
They assured residents that ongoing offensives were aimed at restoring peace and preventing further attacks on innocent civilians.
The release of the captives has brought relief to affected families and communities, many of whom had spent months waiting for news about their loved ones.
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