By Deborah Nnamdi
Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma, have neutralised two suspected bandits, arrested four others, and recovered rustled livestock during a series of coordinated operations across Kaduna State.
The operations, carried out between June 20 and 21, also resulted in the recovery of weapons, ammunition, motorcycles, and electronic devices containing what military authorities described as incriminating evidence linked to banditry and terrorist activities.
According to the military, the first operation was launched on June 20 following credible intelligence on cattle-rustling activities in a community within the state. Troops swiftly mobilised and intercepted the fleeing suspects, leading to a gun battle in which two suspected bandits were killed.
Security forces also recovered rustled livestock, weapons, and ammunition, effectively foiling the operation. However, military authorities disclosed that one civilian lost his life during the incident as a result of actions attributed to the bandits.
Later the same day, troops on a night patrol intercepted two suspected bandits. A search conducted on the suspects reportedly uncovered digital materials linking them to terrorist and bandit activities in the region. The suspects were subsequently taken into custody for further investigation.
The crackdown continued on June 21 when troops on a fighting patrol encountered armed criminals who retreated into surrounding bushes under military pressure. The soldiers pursued the suspects and arrested two alleged bandit scouts believed to be providing intelligence support to criminal groups operating in the area.
Items recovered from the suspects included motorcycles and communication devices containing evidence considered relevant to ongoing investigations.
In a separate development, troops were deployed to restore order in the Mararraba community following a violent disturbance triggered by the killing of a female suspect accused of child trafficking by a mob.
The situation escalated as angry residents attempted to attack public infrastructure and block a major highway. Troops responded swiftly, dispersing the crowd, securing critical facilities, and restoring free movement along the affected route.
Security personnel have since maintained a presence in the area to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
The Theatre Commander of Operation Fansan Yamma commended the troops for their vigilance, discipline, and operational effectiveness, describing the recent successes as evidence of sustained military pressure on terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements across the North-West.
He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to intelligence-driven and offensive operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, securing communities, and improving safety across the region.
