Troops of the Joint Task Force Kano have foiled a bandits’ attack and recovered 147 rustled livestock, including 97 cattle and 50 sheep, during a coordinated operation along the Kano-Katsina border.
The operation, carried out on July 15, 2026, involved troops deployed at Forward Operating Bases (FOBs), reinforced by personnel from a Response Area, following credible intelligence that armed bandits were moving stolen livestock through the Yankamaye and Rimaye axis.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence received at about 5:45 p.m., the troops strategically positioned themselves at identified crossing points used by the fleeing criminals and intercepted the bandits as they attempted to escape.
A fierce gun battle ensued, during which the troops overpowered the attackers, forcing them to abandon the rustled livestock and flee in disarray towards neighbouring Katsina State.
The operation led to the arrest of two suspected terrorists and the recovery of one motorcycle, alongside the rescued livestock. The Nigerian Army said all 97 cattle were successfully returned to their rightful owners, while efforts are ongoing to reunite the recovered sheep with their owners.
However, the operation recorded a tragic casualty as Mallam Yusuf Adamu, a 47-year-old local vigilante from Yanchibi Village, was killed after being caught in the crossfire.
The Nigerian Army extended its condolences to the bereaved family and the Yanchibi community, describing the incident as unfortunate.
Troops have since intensified clearance operations in the area and are pursuing the fleeing bandits to prevent their regrouping and bring those responsible to justice.
Commending the troops, the Commander of 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh, praised their vigilance, professionalism and combat effectiveness, urging them to sustain the offensive until all bandits and other criminal elements operating within the area are neutralised.
He also lauded the continued support of residents, stressing that timely and credible intelligence from the public remains critical to the success of ongoing military operations against banditry and other forms of criminality in the region.
