Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA (JTF NW OPFY), have recorded significant operational successes in Kaduna State, neutralising suspected bandits, recovering rustled livestock, apprehending criminal suspects and restoring public order in separate operations conducted across the state.
According to an official signed statement by the Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the achievements were recorded during a series of intelligence-driven operations carried out between 20 and 21 June 2026 as part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities in the North-West region.
The statement disclosed that on 20 June 2026, troops responded swiftly to credible intelligence on cattle rustling activities in a Kaduna community. During the operation, troops made contact with fleeing criminals and engaged them in a firefight, neutralising two suspected bandits. The troops also recovered weapons, ammunition, other items and rustled livestock, successfully disrupting the criminal operation and facilitating the recovery of the stolen animals.
The operation, however, recorded a casualty as one civilian reportedly lost his life due to the actions of the bandits during the encounter.
In another operation conducted on the same day, troops intercepted two suspected bandits during a night patrol. A thorough search and examination of the suspects revealed incriminating digital materials allegedly linking them to terrorist and bandit activities. The suspects have since been taken into custody and are undergoing further investigation.
Similarly, on 21 June 2026, troops on a fighting patrol encountered armed criminals who retreated into nearby bushes after coming under pressure from the advancing forces. Maintaining the pursuit, the troops apprehended two suspected bandit scouts and recovered motorcycles as well as communication devices containing incriminating evidence. Preliminary investigations indicate the suspects may be connected to criminal activities in the area.
In a separate development on the same day, troops responded to a civil disturbance in Mararraba community, Kaduna State, following the mob killing of a female suspect accused of child trafficking. The violent crowd reportedly attempted to attack public infrastructure and obstruct a major highway before security personnel intervened.
The troops swiftly restored law and order, dispersed the mob, secured critical public facilities and ensured the free movement of commuters while maintaining a visible security presence to prevent further disturbances.
The Theatre Commander commended the vigilance, discipline and operational effectiveness demonstrated by the troops, noting that the recent successes underscore the Force’s determination to relentlessly pursue terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements across the region.
He assured residents that ongoing offensive and intelligence-driven operations would be sustained to further dismantle criminal networks and enhance security throughout the North-West.
