The Joint Task Force in Gwarzo, Kano, has intercepted a cattle rustling attempt, recovering 257 stolen animals during an early morning operation on Sunday.
In a statement, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Maj Babatunde Zubairu, said 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.
On sighting the troops, the bandits fled toward Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, abandoning the stolen livestock, Zubairu said.
The recovered livestock comprised 135 cows, 119 sheep, one goat and two donkeys, bringing the total to 257 animals.
The animals were handed over to their rightful owners through the appropriate local authorities.
We are pleased that the livestock has been safely returned to their owners, he said.
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.
I commend the gallantry and high morale of our troops, who displayed exceptional courage during the operation, he said.
He also appreciated the continued cooperation of the local community.
Tukur reaffirmed the Joint Task Force’s commitment to curbing cattle rustling and other criminal activities in the area. (NAN)
Tags: Cattle rustling The Joint Task Force
