Troops Deal Major Blow to Bandits, Recover 529 Rustled Livestock in Kastina
Troops from the Forward Operation Base (FOB) Malumfashi, under the 17 Brigade Nigerian Army, have achieved a significant victory in Katsina State, successfully recovering 529 rustled livestock following a fierce encounter with suspected terrorists in Kafur Local Government Area.
The operation, led by Lieutenant Colonel MM Isa, Commanding Officer of FOB Malumfashi, was prompted by credible intelligence regarding the movement of terrorists near Kasuwan Sabo on 7 February 2026. The terrorists, believed to have infiltrated from neighboring Zamfara State, were allegedly led by Idi Abasu Aiki, the younger brother of notorious bandit leader Ado Aliero.
Upon arriving at the location, the troops engaged the terrorists who opened fire. Despite the initial attack, the troops responded with superior firepower, forcing the assailants to retreat into nearby bushes, abandoning the rustled livestock they had taken with them.
In a determined pursuit, the troops tracked the fleeing terrorists between Burdugau and Unguwan Matau villages in Malumfashi Local Government Area, where they successfully recovered 290 cows, 238 sheep, one donkey, and a motorcycle. However, 14 cows were killed during cross-fire as the terrorists used them as shields in the encounter. No casualties were reported on the troops' side, highlighting the operational success and professionalism of the Nigerian Army.
The recovered livestock were handed over to local authorities, including Honourable Suraju Nature, Chairman of Kafur LGA, and Superintendent of Police Aminu Salihu, Divisional Police Officer of Kafur, who oversaw the identification and return of the animals to their rightful owners.
Major General Paul Koughna, General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, commended the troops for their gallantry and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army's commitment to intensifying operations against criminal elements in the region. The troops of FOB Malumfashi continue to conduct aggressive patrols to deny terrorists freedom of movement and protect the local population.
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