Sokoto: Army troops repel terrorist attack, kill two, rescue victims

Troops of the Nigerian Army have repelled an attack by suspected terrorists on Damba Dikko village in Illela Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

Responding to a distress call from the village, the troops eliminated two of the terrorists and rescued two other villagers who were held captive by the terrorists.

The terrorists were reported to have stormed the community on Wednesday to extort levies from residents of the village.

Meanwhile, the two rescued victims who suffered minor injuries have been given medical attention by Nigerian Army paramedics.

Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations disclosed this in a statement on Thursday.

According to Nwachukwu, troops of the Nigerian Army in Edo State equally rescued four kidnap victims during a rescue operation.

While one of the victims who suffered from shock and fatigue has been evacuated to the hospital, the troops arrested one of the kidnappers, adding that the investigation is ongoing.

The statement partly reads: "The Kidnappers had forcefully taken their captives, including a lady and 3 men into Ososo forest in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of the state, but were tracked and intercepted by the gallant troops, who engaged the criminals in a firefight and extricated the abductees. 

"The troops apprehended one of the kidnappers, who is currently undergoing preliminary investigation and will be subsequently handed over to the appropriate prosecuting agency. 

"One of the rescued victims who suffered from shock and fatigue has been evacuated to a medical facility, where he is receiving treatment, while others have been handed over to their families.

"The Nigerian Army appreciates members of the public for their cooperation with troops and other security agencies in the fight against security challenges in the country and encourages them to continue to be vigilant and promptly report any suspected attempt to breach the security to relevant agencies. Together, we can restore peace and stability in our various communities, states and nation."