Security forces under the Joint Task Force in Gwarzo have thwarted a large-scale cattle rustling operation in Kano State, recovering 257 stolen animals after a swift counter-offensive against fleeing bandits.
The intervention, coordinated by troops of the Nigerian Army under the 3 Brigade, followed an emergency alert from residents of Mainika village in Gwarzo Local Government Area.
The distress call, received early Sunday morning, indicated that armed men had raided the community and driven away dozens of livestock.
Acting on the intelligence, operatives tracked a suspected escape corridor and intercepted the rustlers near Dayi village.
A gunfight reportedly ensued, forcing the attackers to retreat toward Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Military authorities disclosed that the assailants abandoned the stolen animals during the chaotic withdrawal.
“Our troops responded with speed and precision. The criminals were overwhelmed and fled, leaving the rustled livestock behind,” an army spokesperson said.
Recovered animals include 135 cows, 119 sheep, one goat and two donkeys, bringing the total to 257. Local authorities have since facilitated the return of the livestock to their rightful owners.
Furthermore, officials stated that the bandits sustained significant losses during the exchange.
Although exact casualty figures were not released, the military described the impact on the criminal group as substantial.
The Joint Task Force operating in Gwarzo comprises personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, alongside army troops and local vigilante groups.
Commander of the 3 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmad Tukur, praised the operatives for their courage and tactical coordination.
According to him, sustained morale and community collaboration remain central to ongoing security operations in the area.
He also acknowledged the residents for supplying timely intelligence.
“Community cooperation continues to strengthen our operational effectiveness. We urge citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity promptly,” he said.
Security officials confirmed that normalcy has been restored in the affected communities.
However, surveillance patrols have been intensified to deter further attacks and safeguard lives and property.
The latest operation underscores renewed military pressure against cattle rustling and banditry in northern Nigeria, where rural communities have faced repeated attacks in recent years.