Troops Kill 2 Bandits, Arrest Suspects In Kaduna

Troops of Sector 1 of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have neutralised two suspected bandits, recovered rustled livestock, arrested suspected criminal collaborators and restored public order in separate operations across Kaduna State.

The operations, conducted between June 20 and 21, formed part of ongoing efforts by security forces to combat terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities in the North-West region.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, troops acted on credible intelligence regarding cattle rustling activities in a Kaduna community on June 20.

The statement said the troops engaged fleeing criminals in a firefight, resulting in the death of two suspected bandits.

Weapons, ammunition and other items were recovered during the operation, while rustled livestock were successfully retrieved and returned.

The military, however, disclosed that one civilian lost his life during the incident due to the actions of the fleeing bandits.

“In a separate operation on the same day, troops conducting a night patrol intercepted two suspected bandits. According to the military, an examination of materials found in their possession revealed digital evidence allegedly linking them to terrorist and bandit activities,” the statement read.

The suspects have since been taken into custody and are undergoing further investigation.

On June 21, troops on a fighting patrol reportedly encountered armed criminals who retreated into nearby bushes after coming under pressure from advancing forces.

The troops pursued the suspects and arrested two alleged bandit scouts. Motorcycles and communication devices containing what the military described as incriminating evidence were recovered during the operation.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects may have been involved in criminal activities within the area, while further inquiries are ongoing,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, troops also intervened in a civil disturbance in the Mararraba community following the mob killing of a woman accused of child trafficking.

The military said the situation escalated after an angry crowd attempted to attack public infrastructure and block a major highway.

“Security personnel were deployed to the area, where they dispersed the mob, secured critical facilities and restored normal traffic flow.”

The statement noted that troops maintained a visible presence in the community to prevent any further breakdown of law and order.

Reacting to the operations, the Theatre Commander commended the troops for their vigilance, discipline and operational effectiveness.

He said the recent successes demonstrated the force’s determination to pursue terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements across the region.

“The recent successes reflect the Force’s resolve to relentlessly pursue terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements wherever they operate,” the commander said.

He assured residents that intelligence-led and offensive operations would continue to dismantle criminal networks and improve security across the North-West.

The military reiterated its commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal groups while working to ensure the safety of communities and critical infrastructure in Kaduna State and neighbouring areas.