Troops of Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA have recorded major operational successes in separate operations across the North-West, leading to the arrest of a suspected arms courier, the recovery of a large cache of ammunition, and the rescue of dozens of rustled cattle.
According to military authorities, troops of Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA intercepted a civilian vehicle at a checkpoint in Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State, on June 5, 2026. The vehicle, which was heading towards Shinkafi Local Government Area, was subjected to a thorough search that uncovered a locally fabricated pistol, a magazine, and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition concealed inside a sack of millet.
The suspect, identified as 42-year-old Mustapha Abubakar, was arrested at the scene. Military sources said preliminary investigations suggest he was transporting the weapons and ammunition to criminal elements operating in the region.
The recovered items have been secured, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the suspected arms trafficking network. Investigators believe the suspect was en route to deliver the consignment to an accomplice.
In a separate operation on June 3, troops of Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA thwarted an attempted cattle rustling incident in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State following a distress call from a local herder.
Acting on the intelligence, troops swiftly mobilised and positioned themselves along the suspected escape route of the rustlers. The soldiers subsequently engaged the criminals in a firefight as they attempted to move the stolen livestock out of the area.
The armed rustlers reportedly abandoned the cattle and fled into nearby bushes under sustained military pressure.
A total of 53 cattle were recovered during the operation and later handed over to their rightful owner.
The military said the operations underscore the continued efforts of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to dismantle terrorist and criminal networks, disrupt the movement of arms and ammunition, and safeguard the livelihoods of residents across the North-West.
The Theatre Command commended the troops for their vigilance, professionalism and resilience, while urging members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance ongoing efforts to restore peace, security and stability in the region.
