Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Kano have foiled a bandits’ attack and recovered 97 cattle and 50 sheep in an operation along the Yankamaye-Rimaye axis on the Kano-Katsina border.
The operation, conducted by troops deployed at Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) and reinforced by personnel from a Response Area, followed credible intelligence that armed bandits were moving rustled livestock through the area.
According to the Nigerian Army, the troops received the intelligence at about 5:45 p.m. on July 15 and immediately positioned themselves at key crossing points frequently used by the criminals.
The troops subsequently intercepted the fleeing bandits, leading to a gun battle during which the attackers were overwhelmed and forced to abandon the stolen livestock.
“During the ensuing exchange of gunfire, troops overwhelmed the bandits, forcing them to abandon the rustled livestock and flee in total disarray towards Katsina State,” the Army said.
The military said two suspected terrorists were arrested during the operation, while one motorcycle, 97 cattle and 50 sheep were recovered.
According to the Army, all the recovered cattle have been returned to their rightful owners.
The operation, however, recorded a casualty as a local vigilante, Mallam Yusuf Adamu, 47, of Yanchibi Village, was killed after being caught in the crossfire.
“Regrettably, one local vigilante, Mallam Yusuf Adamu, aged 47 from Yanchibi Village, lost his life after being caught in the crossfire. The Nigerian Army extends its heartfelt condolences to his family and the entire Yanchibi community over this unfortunate incident,” the statement added.
The Army said troops have continued clearance and pursuit operations in the area to track down the fleeing bandits and prevent further criminal activities.
Commending the troops, Commander of the 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Saka Jimoh, praised their alertness, professionalism and fighting spirit during the operation.
He urged the personnel to sustain the momentum until all bandits and criminal elements operating within the area are neutralised.
Jimoh also appreciated residents for their continued support and encouraged members of the public to provide timely and credible information to security agencies.
According to him, public cooperation remains critical to the success of ongoing military operations against banditry and other forms of criminality in the region.
