Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Kano have foiled a bandits’ attack and recovered 97 cattle and 50 sheep during an operation along the Kano-Katsina border.
The operation, carried out by troops deployed at Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) and reinforced by personnel from a Response Area, took place in the Yankamaye and Rimaye axis following intelligence on the movement of rustled livestock by armed bandits.
Military authorities said the troops acted on credible intelligence received at about 5:45 p.m. on July 15, indicating that bandits were moving stolen livestock through the general area.
According to the Army, troops swiftly deployed to identified crossing points used by the criminals and intercepted them while attempting to escape.During the ensuing gun battle, the troops reportedly overpowered the bandits, forcing them to abandon the rustled animals and flee towards neighbouring Katsina State.
The Army said two suspected terrorists were arrested during the operation, while one motorcycle, 97 cattle and 50 sheep were recovered.”The troops overwhelmed the bandits, forcing them to abandon the rustled livestock and flee in total disarray towards Katsina State,” the military said in a statement.
The recovered livestock have since been returned to their rightful owners.However, the operation recorded a casualty as a local vigilante, identified as Mallam Yusuf Adamu, 47, of Yanchibi Village, was killed after being caught in the crossfire.
The Nigerian Army expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and members of the Yanchibi community over the incident.
“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.
Military authorities said troops have continued to comb the area in pursuit of the fleeing bandits.Commending the troops for the successful operation, Commander of the 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Saka Jimoh, praised their alertness, professionalism and fighting spirit.
He urged them to sustain the momentum of ongoing operations 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, sustained collaboration between local communities and security agencies remains critical to the success of efforts aimed at tackling banditry and other criminal activities in the region.
