Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have recorded fresh successes in a series of operations across Kaduna State, killing suspected bandits, recovering stolen livestock, and restoring public order in affected communities.
According to the task force, troops responded on June 20, 2026, to credible intelligence about cattle rustling activities in a community within Kaduna State. During the operation, the troops engaged fleeing criminals in a gun battle, killing two suspected bandits and recovering weapons, ammunition, and rustled livestock.
The military said the swift intervention disrupted the criminal operation and enabled the recovery of the stolen animals. However, one civilian reportedly lost his life during the incident as a result of the bandits’ actions.
In a separate operation carried out on the same day, troops intercepted two suspected bandits during a night patrol. Security officials said a search of the suspects uncovered digital materials allegedly linking them to terrorist and bandit activities. The suspects are currently in custody while investigations continue.
On June 21, troops conducting a fighting patrol encountered armed criminals who fled into nearby bushes after coming under pressure from the advancing soldiers. The troops pursued them and arrested two suspected bandit informants, recovering motorcycles and communication devices containing materials considered useful to ongoing investigations.
Meanwhile, troops were also deployed to Mararraba community in Kaduna State following a disturbance triggered by the mob killing of a woman accused of child trafficking. The crowd later attempted to attack public facilities and block a major highway before security personnel intervened.
The troops restored calm to the area, secured critical infrastructure, and ensured the free movement of road users. The Theatre Commander praised the professionalism and vigilance of the troops, assuring residents that intelligence-led and offensive operations would continue to target bandits, terrorists, and other criminal groups across the region.