Troops of the 17 Brigade have recovered 318 rustled livestock during a major offensive operation targeting suspected bandit enclaves in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Military sources said the operation, conducted on June 17, was launched on two fronts to clear criminal elements operating around Tuga and adjoining communities.
The sources disclosed that Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions were carried out ahead of the ground assault, while air assets conducted precision strikes on three suspected terrorist locations to degrade the criminals’ capabilities before the advance of ground troops.
According to the sources, one column of troops advanced through Karaduwa, Farin Tafki, Saura and Radawa towards Tuga, while a second column moved through Sayaya, Gangule and Radawa to the objective area.
During the operation, troops successfully cleared several communities, including Karaduwa, Farin Tafki, Saura and Radawa, and intercepted 318 rustled livestock believed to have been stolen by bandits.
The recovered animals were subsequently moved to a military base for documentation and further action.
The troops also responded to attacks launched by suspected bandits on Tuga and Kuka Maidamisa villages. The attacks were reportedly carried out in retaliation against residents accused by the criminals of providing information that led to the rescue of kidnapped victims, including one Mrs Amina Abubakar.
Military sources said troops conducted further exploitation of the surrounding areas after securing the affected communities but did not encounter any additional significant threats.
The operation is expected to continue as security forces sustain pressure on criminal elements operating within the area.
By: Zagazola Makama
