By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
Troops of the Joint Task Force Kano, in an intervention operation, recued 97 cattle and 50 sheep from bandits and captured two terrorists in Katsina State.
According to the military, Troops of the Joint Task Force Kano received credible intelligence that armed bandits were moving rustled livestock through the Yankamaye and Rimaye area, right along the boundary between Kano and Katsina states. Acting fast, soldiers deployed from Forward Operating Bases and a nearby Response Area positioned themselves at known bandit crossing points. By 1745 hours, they were in place and waiting.
The interception came quickly. The Army said as the bandits tried to move the stolen animals through the area, troops engaged them in a fierce exchange of gunfire. Overwhelmed by the military response, the attackers broke formation and fled in disarray toward Katsina State, abandoning their haul to escape. The operation was swift and decisive, cutting off what would have been a major loss for local herders.
In the aftermath, the troops counted their gains. They captured 2 suspected terrorists, recovered 1 motorcycle, 97 cattle, and 50 sheep. The livestock was later identified and returned in full to their rightful owners, bringing relief to communities that had feared the worst. It was a direct blow to the bandits’ supply and financing network in the region.
The victory came with a painful cost. One local vigilante, 47-year-old Mallam Yusuf Adamu from Yanchibi Village, lost his life after being caught in the crossfire. The Nigerian Army extended heartfelt condolences to his family and to the entire Yanchibi community, acknowledging the sacrifice made in the fight against insecurity.
Commander of 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh, commended the troops for their alertness, professionalism, and fighting spirit. He urged them to maintain the operational tempo until all criminal elements hiding in the area are neutralized.
