Soldiers recover 529 rustled animals in Katsina after heavy gun battle with bandits

Troops of the Nigerian Army have recovered 529 rustled livestock following a gun battle with suspected terrorists in Kafur local government area of Katsina state.

The operation was carried out by troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Malumfashi under the Headquarters 17 Brigade, acting on intelligence about terrorist movements around Kasuwan Sabo area of Kafur on February 7.

According to the Army, the operation was led by Lt-Col. M. M. Isa, Commanding Officer of FOB Malumfashi.

Preliminary intelligence indicated that the suspected terrorists had infiltrated the area from neighbouring Zamfara state and were allegedly led by Idi Abasu Aiki, believed to be a younger brother of notorious bandit leader Ado Aliero.

Military sources said the troops mobilised swiftly to the area, where the terrorists opened fire upon sighting the advancing soldiers.

The troops responded with superior firepower, forcing the suspects to flee into nearby bushes with some of the rustled livestock.

The army said the troops pursued the fleeing terrorists and caught up with them between Burdugau and Unguwan Matau villages in Malumfashi LGA, compelling them to abandon the animals.

Following a sweep of the area, the troops recovered a total of 529 livestock, comprising 290 cows, 238 sheep and one donkey, as well as one motorcycle.

Fourteen cows were reportedly killed during the encounter after being used as shields by the terrorists, while no casualty was recorded among the troops.

The recovered livestock were handed over to relevant authorities for identification and returned to their owners under the supervision of Suraju Nature, chairman of Kafur LGA, and Aminu Salihu, divisional police officer of Kafur.

The general officer commanding 8 Division and commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Maj-Gen. Paul Koughna, commended the troops for their gallantry and professionalism.

Koughna also reassured residents of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against criminal elements within its area of responsibility.

The army said troops of FOB Malumfashi have continued to dominate the area through aggressive patrols to deny terrorists freedom of action.

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