Troops recover rusted livestock, arrest suspected bandits in Kaduna

The Nigerian army has said that its troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma, JTF NW OPFY, have achieved significant operational successes through a series of coordinated efforts across Kaduna State.

The army reported that it has disrupted criminal activities, apprehended suspected bandits, recovered stolen livestock, and restored public order in the affected communities.

A statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force (North West) Operation Fansan Yamma, indicated that on June 20, 2026, troops acted promptly on credible intelligence regarding cattle rustling activities in a community within Kaduna State.

The statement detailed that the troops engaged with the fleeing criminals, resulting in a firefight that neutralized two suspected bandits and led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and other items, along with the rustled livestock.

It emphasized that this swift intervention disrupted the criminal operation and facilitated the recovery of the stolen animals. Unfortunately, one civilian lost his life during the incident due to the actions of the bandits.

Furthermore, the army reported that in another successful operation on 20 June 2026, its troops intercepted two suspected bandits during a night patrol. A thorough examination of the suspects uncovered incriminating digital materials that linked them to terrorist and bandit activities.

“The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation,” the statement said.

The army said that in similarly, on 21 June 2026, troops conducting a fighting patrol encountered armed criminals who came under pressure and retreated into the surrounding bush. 

“Maintaining aggressive pursuit, the troops successfully apprehended two suspected bandit scouts and recovered motorcycles, communication devices containing incriminating evidence. Preliminary findings indicate the suspects’ involvement in criminal activities, while investigations are ongoing,” the statement added.

In a separate development on the same day, the army said that its troops responded promptly to a civil disturbance at Mararraba community in Kaduna State, following the tragic mob killing of a female suspect accused of child trafficking. 

“The violent crowd subsequently attempted to attack public infrastructure and obstruct a major highway before the timely arrival of security forces.

“Troops swiftly restored law and order, dispersed the mob, secured critical facilities and ensured the uninterrupted movement of commuters while maintaining a visible presence to prevent any further breakdown of public order,” it said.