Troops of the Nigerian Army under Headquarters 17 Brigade have recorded a major operational success with the recovery of 529 rustled livestock following a fierce engagement with suspected terrorists in Kafur Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The operation was carried out by troops of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Malumfashi, led by the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel M.M. Isa, after actionable intelligence revealed the movement of terrorists around Kasuwan Sabo area of Kafur on February 7, 2026.
Military sources disclosed that the suspects were believed to have infiltrated the area from neighbouring Zamfara State and were allegedly led by Idi Abasu Aiki, said to be the younger brother of notorious bandit leader, Ado Aliero. Acting swiftly, the troops mobilised to intercept the criminals.
Upon sighting the advancing soldiers, the terrorists reportedly opened fire, prompting a swift and decisive response from the troops. The superior firepower of the Army forced the attackers to flee into nearby bushes with some of the stolen livestock.
The troops pursued the fleeing terrorists and caught up with them between Burdugau and Unguwan Matau villages in Malumfashi Local Government Area, where the criminals were compelled to abandon the rustled animals. After an extensive sweep of the area, the troops successfully recovered 290 cows, 238 sheep, one donkey and one motorcycle. Fourteen cows were, however, lost during the exchange of fire, having reportedly been used as shields by the terrorists.
No casualty was recorded on the side of the troops, a development that underscored the professionalism and combat readiness of the soldiers involved in the operation.
The recovered livestock were later handed over to relevant authorities for proper identification and return to their rightful owners. The exercise was supervised by the Chairman of Kafur Local Government Area, Hon. Suraju Nature, alongside the Divisional Police Officer of Kafur, Superintendent of Police Aminu Salihu.
Commending the troops, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Paul Koughna, praised their gallantry and reassured residents of the Nigerian Army’s resolve to sustain aggressive operations against criminal elements across the Division’s area of responsibility.
Troops of FOB Malumfashi, according to the Army, have continued aggressive patrols in the area to deny terrorists freedom of action and ensure lasting security for residents.
