Troops of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, have rescued 41 travellers abducted by bandits after their commercial vehicle broke down along a highway in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

 The rescued victims comprised 24 men, 10 women and seven children.

 According to a statement issued by the operation on Tuesday, the travellers were journeying from Senegal to Kano State when their vehicle developed a mechanical fault, leaving them stranded along the highway.

 The bandits reportedly seized the opportunity to abduct the passengers and attempted to move them into the surrounding area.

 “Acting on actionable intelligence, troops swiftly mobilised to the scene and engaged the armed group with superior firepower,” the statement said.

 The military intervention forced the bandits to abandon the victims and flee into nearby farmlands.

 “All 41 victims were successfully rescued unharmed,” the statement added.

 The rescued travellers are currently receiving necessary support and are expected to be reunited with their families and relevant transit authorities.

 The operation also said troops had maintained an active presence in the area to safeguard travellers and pursue the fleeing suspects.

 The rescue comes amid sustained military operations across the North-West aimed at disrupting bandit activities and protecting communities and travellers along major highways.