Troops Foil Bandits’ Attack, Recover 97 Cattle and 50 Sheep in Kano

Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Kano have foiled a bandits’ attack and recovered 97 cattle and 50 sheep during a successful operation along the Kano-Katsina border, while two suspected terrorists were arrested.

The operation, carried out on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, followed credible intelligence indicating that armed bandits were moving rustled livestock through the Yankamaye and Rimaye axis, a known crossing point along the boundary between Kano and Katsina states.

According to the Nigerian Army, troops deployed at Forward Operating Bases (FOBs), reinforced by personnel from a Response Area, swiftly mobilised to strategic crossing points after receiving the intelligence at about 5:45 p.m. The troops intercepted the fleeing bandits as they attempted to escape with the stolen livestock.

A fierce gun battle reportedly ensued, during which the troops overpowered the criminals, forcing them to abandon the rustled animals and flee towards neighbouring Katsina State.

The Army disclosed that the operation led to the arrest of two suspected terrorists and the recovery of one motorcycle believed to have been used by the criminals. Security personnel also recovered 97 cattle and 50 sheep, all of which have since been returned to their rightful owners.

However, the operation recorded one casualty on the side of local vigilantes. A 47-year-old vigilante, Mallam Yusuf Adamu of Yanchibi Village, was fatally hit after being caught in the crossfire during the exchange of gunfire.

The Nigerian Army expressed sadness over the incident, extending its condolences to the family of the deceased and members of the Yanchibi community.

“Regrettably, one local vigilante, Mallam Yusuf Adamu, aged 47 from Yanchibi Village, lost his life after being caught in the crossfire. The Nigerian Army extends its heartfelt condolences to his family and the entire Yanchibi community over this unfortunate incident,” the statement said.

Military authorities said troops have continued to exploit the general area in pursuit of the fleeing bandits, with efforts underway to track and apprehend the remaining members of the criminal gang.

Commander of the 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh, commended the troops for what he described as their vigilance, professionalism and combat effectiveness during the operation.

He urged the personnel to sustain the momentum of ongoing operations until all bandits and other criminal elements operating within the area are completely neutralised.

The Brigade Commander also appreciated residents for their continued cooperation with security agencies, stressing that timely and credible intelligence from members of the public remains a critical factor in the military’s campaign against banditry and other forms of criminality.

The latest operation adds to ongoing efforts by security forces to curb cattle rustling, banditry and other violent crimes across communities bordering Kano and Katsina states, where criminal groups have continued to exploit remote routes to attack communities and steal livestock. The Army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property while sustaining offensive operations aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of movement across the region.