Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma, have recorded a series of operational successes in Kaduna State, killing two suspected bandits, arresting four others, recovering rustled livestock and restoring order in troubled communities.
Disclosing this on Monday, OPFY’s Media Information Officer, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, said the operations, conducted between June 20 and 21, formed part of ongoing efforts to combat banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities across the North-West.
On June 20, troops acting on credible intelligence responded to a cattle-rustling incident in a Kaduna community. Security forces engaged the fleeing suspects in a gun battle, killing two of them and recovering weapons, ammunition and stolen livestock.
Military authorities said the swift intervention disrupted the criminal operation and enabled the recovery of the rustled animals. One civilian, however, was reportedly killed during the attack by the bandits.
In a separate operation on the same day, troops on night patrol intercepted two suspected bandits. Preliminary examination of digital materials recovered from the suspects reportedly linked them to terrorist and bandit activities. The suspects are currently in custody for further investigation.
On June 21, troops conducting a fighting patrol encountered armed criminals who retreated into nearby bushes under military pressure. The troops pursued the suspects and arrested two suspected bandit scouts.
Recovered items included motorcycles and communication devices containing incriminating evidence. Investigations are ongoing to establish the suspects’ involvement in criminal activities.
Also on June 21, troops were deployed to Mararraba community following unrest triggered by the mob killing of a woman accused of child trafficking.
The mob reportedly attempted to attack public infrastructure and block a major highway before security personnel intervened. Troops restored order, dispersed the crowd, secured critical facilities and ensured the free movement of commuters.
The Theatre Commander commended the troops for their vigilance and professionalism, stating that the operations underscore the military’s determination to pursue terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements across the region.
He assured residents that intelligence-led and offensive operations would continue to strengthen security and dismantle criminal networks in the North-West.
