Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), have recorded significant operational successes across Kaduna State, recovering rustled livestock, arresting suspected bandits and restoring public order in a series of intelligence-driven operations.
According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the operations were part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities across the North-West region.
The statement disclosed that on June 20, 2026, troops acted on credible intelligence regarding cattle rustling activities in a Kaduna community. The troops swiftly engaged fleeing criminals in a firefight, neutralising two suspected bandits and recovering weapons, ammunition and rustled livestock.
The intervention successfully disrupted the criminal operation and led to the recovery of the stolen animals. However, one civilian was reportedly killed during the incident as a result of actions by the bandits.
In a separate operation on the same day, troops conducting a night patrol intercepted two suspected bandits. A search of the suspects reportedly uncovered incriminating digital materials linking them to terrorist and bandit activities. The suspects have been taken into custody and are undergoing further investigation.
On June 21, troops on a fighting patrol encountered armed criminals who retreated into nearby bushes after coming under military pressure. Pursuing the fleeing suspects, the troops apprehended two suspected bandit scouts and recovered motorcycles as well as communication devices containing alleged incriminating evidence.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects may have been involved in criminal activities within the area, while further inquiries are ongoing.
Also on June 21, troops responded to a civil disturbance in Mararraba community following the mob killing of a female suspect accused of child trafficking. The crowd reportedly attempted to attack public infrastructure and block a major highway before security forces intervened.
The troops swiftly restored normalcy, dispersed the mob, secured critical facilities and ensured the free flow of traffic while maintaining a strong security presence to prevent further unrest.
Commending the troops for their professionalism and operational effectiveness, the Theatre Commander said the recent achievements underscore the commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to eliminating terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements across the region.
He assured residents that ongoing offensive and intelligence-led operations would continue to dismantle criminal networks and improve security in Kaduna State and the wider North-West region.
