Troops of the Joint Task Force in Kano have foiled a bandit attack along the Kano-Katsina border, arrested two suspected bandits and recovered 147 rustled livestock during a coordinated security operation in the Yankamaye-Rimaye axis.
The operation, carried out on July 15, followed credible intelligence indicating that armed bandits were moving stolen livestock through the area after an attack.
According to a statement issued by Babatunde Zubairu, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, troops deployed at Forward Operating Bases, reinforced by personnel from a Response Area, strategically positioned themselves along suspected escape routes used by the attackers.
The statement said the troops intercepted the fleeing bandits, leading to a gun battle during which the suspects abandoned the rustled animals and fled towards neighbouring Katsina State.
It said two suspected terrorists were arrested during the operation, while security personnel recovered one motorcycle, 97 cattle and 50 sheep.
The army added that all the recovered cattle had been returned to their rightful owners, while troops have continued clearance operations in the area to track down other fleeing members of the gang.
The operation, however, recorded one casualty as Yusuf Adamu, a 47-year-old local vigilante from Yanchibi village, was killed after being caught in the crossfire.
The Nigerian Army expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and the Yanchibi community, describing his death as unfortunate.
Saka Jimoh, commander of the 3 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, commended the troops for their vigilance, professionalism and courage during the operation.
He urged them to sustain the ongoing offensive against bandits and other criminal elements operating within the border communities until they are completely dislodged.
Jimoh also appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible intelligence, stressing that public cooperation remains vital to the success of ongoing counter-banditry operations in the region.
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