By Kingsley Omonobi

Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY), have neutralised two suspected bandits, arrested four others and recovered rustled livestock in a series of coordinated operations across Kaduna State, as security forces intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the North-West.

The operations, conducted between June 20 and 21, also led to 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 Kaduna community.

Troops swiftly mobilised and intercepted the fleeing criminals, resulting in a firefight during which two suspected bandits were neutralised. Security forces also recovered rustled livestock, weapons and ammunition, effectively foiling the criminal operation.

Military authorities, however, disclosed that one civilian lost his life during the incident due to actions attributed to 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 digital materials linking them to terrorist and bandit activities in the region.

The suspects have since been taken into custody and are undergoing 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 fleeing suspects and subsequently arrested two suspected 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 another development, troops were called in to restore order following a violent disturbance in Mararraba community, Kaduna State.

The unrest reportedly erupted after a female suspect accused of child trafficking was killed 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 gains as evidence of the military’s sustained pressure on terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements across the North-West.

He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to intelligence-led and offensive operations aimed at degrading criminal networks, securing communities and improving safety across the region.

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