Kano (Nigeria): The Joint Task Force in Gwarzo has intercepted a cattle rustling attempt, recovering 257 stolen animals during an early morning operation on Sunday.
Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Maj Babatunde Zubairu, stated that troops responded to a distress call at about 6.57 a.m.
He said the call reported armed bandits who had raided Mainika village in Gwarzo Local Government Area of Kano State, rustling numerous cattle.
Troops of the 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, tracked the bandits to Dayi village, where they laid an ambush and engaged the criminals.
According to Zubairu, the bandits fled toward Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, abandoning the livestock when they saw the troops.
The recovered livestock comprised 135 cows, 119 sheep, 1 goat, and 2 donkeys, bringing the total to 257 animals.
Officials handed the animals over to their rightful owners through the appropriate local authorities.
He expressed satisfaction over the safe return of the livestock to their owners.
The operation involved personnel of the 3 Brigade, the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and local vigilantes.
A source said the bandits suffered heavy casualties during the confrontation and their plans were foiled.
Commander of the 3 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Ahmad Tukur commended the troops for their bravery and vigilance.
He praised the troops’ courage and high morale during the operation.
He also appreciated the continued cooperation of the local community.
Tukur reaffirmed that the Joint Task Force remains committed to curbing cattle rustling and other criminal activities in the area.
