JUST IN: Troops neutralise two bandits, recover rustled livestock in Kaduna

Crime Diary

KADUNA, Nigeria (NPA) — Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have neutralised two suspected bandits, recovered rustled livestock and arrested several suspects during a series of operations across Kaduna State.

The operations, conducted between June 20 and June 21, also led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition, motorcycles and communication devices containing incriminating materials.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lt.-Col. Aliyu Danja, the troops recorded the successes as part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities in the North-West region.

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According to the statement, on June 20, troops, acting on credible intelligence, responded to a cattle-rustling incident in a community in Kaduna State.

The troops engaged the fleeing criminals in a firefight, neutralising two suspected bandits and recovering weapons, ammunition and rustled livestock.

The military said the operation disrupted the criminal activity and enabled the recovery of the stolen animals.

However, one civilian was reportedly killed during the incident by the bandits.

In a separate operation on the same day, troops intercepted two suspected bandits during a night patrol.

A search of the suspects allegedly uncovered digital materials linking them to terrorist and bandit activities. They are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation.

On June 21, troops on a fighting patrol encountered armed criminals who retreated into nearby bushes after coming under pressure.

The troops pursued the suspects and apprehended two suspected bandit informants while recovering motorcycles and communication devices containing incriminating evidence.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects may have been involved in criminal activities within the area.

Meanwhile, troops also responded to a civil disturbance in Mararraba community following the mob killing of a woman accused of child trafficking.

According to the military, the crowd attempted to attack public infrastructure and block a major highway before security personnel intervened.

Troops restored normalcy, dispersed the crowd, secured critical facilities and ensured the free movement of commuters while maintaining a security presence to prevent further unrest.

The Theatre Commander commended the troops for their vigilance, discipline and operational effectiveness, describing the latest successes as evidence of the military’s determination to sustain pressure on terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.

He assured residents that ongoing intelligence-led and offensive operations would continue to enhance security and dismantle criminal networks across the region.