Troops Foil Bandit Attack, Recover 147 Rustled Livestock in Kano Border Operation

Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Kano have foiled a suspected bandit attack and recovered 147 rustled livestock during a security operation along the Yankamaye–Rimaye corridor on the boundary between Kano and Katsina states.

The Nigerian Army said the operation, carried out on Wednesday evening, also led to the arrest of two suspected terrorists, while troops continue to pursue other fleeing members of the criminal group.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, Major Babatunde Zubairu, the operation was launched at about 5:45 p.m following credible intelligence that armed bandits were moving stolen livestock through the area.

He said troops stationed at various Forward Operating Bases (FOBs), reinforced by personnel from a Response Area, swiftly mobilised and strategically positioned themselves at known crossing routes used by the criminals.

The deployment culminated in a confrontation between the troops and the suspected bandits.

"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 statement said.

Following the operation, security forces recovered 97 cattle and 50 sheep believed to have been stolen during the attack.

The Army also recovered one motorcycle and arrested two suspected terrorists linked to the operation.

Military authorities confirmed that the rescued livestock have since been returned to their rightful owners.

However, the operation recorded one casualty on the civilian side.

The Army disclosed that a local vigilante, identified as 47-year-old Mallam Yusuf Adamu of Yanchibi Village, was killed after being caught in the crossfire during the exchange of gunfire.

"The Nigerian Army extends its heartfelt condolences to his family and the entire Yanchibi community over this unfortunate incident," the statement added.

The military said troops have continued clearance operations across the surrounding communities and forests in an effort to track down the fleeing bandits and dismantle their criminal network.

Commander of the 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh, commended the troops for what he described as their alertness, professionalism and fighting spirit during the operation.

He urged them to sustain the offensive until all criminal elements operating within the area are neutralised and normalcy is fully restored.

The brigade commander also acknowledged the contribution of residents whose timely intelligence aided the successful operation, encouraging members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible information to strengthen ongoing efforts against banditry, cattle rustling and other violent crimes across the region.