Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 17 Brigade have rescued nine kidnapped victims, foiled a planned terrorist attack, recovered 56 rustled livestock, and arrested a suspected terrorist during a series of coordinated operations across Katsina State.
The operations, carried out under ongoing military efforts to combat terrorism and banditry in Nigeria’s North-West, targeted criminal hideouts in Bakori, Faskari, and Danmusa Local Government Areas.
According to the Nigerian Army, troops acting on credible intelligence on July 14 laid an ambush for terrorists led by a notorious bandit commander who were planning an attack in the Bakori area. The terrorists reportedly opened fire after sighting the troops but were forced to retreat into nearby bushes after encountering superior military firepower.
During a follow-up search of the area, troops recovered 56 rustled livestock abandoned by the fleeing criminals. The recovered animals comprised 52 sheep and four cows.
In a separate operation on July 15, troops conducting a fighting patrol in Faskari Local Government Area rescued nine kidnapped victims who escaped from a terrorist enclave.
The rescued victims included four men, three women, and two toddlers. Military authorities said they were abducted by armed terrorists on July 9 in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The Army said the victims are receiving medical attention and other necessary support before being reunited with their families through the appropriate authorities.
Meanwhile, the Commander of the 17 Brigade, Brigadier General Maikarfi Ibrahim, arrested a suspected terrorist during an operational tour of Danmusa Local Government Area.
A preliminary search of the suspect’s mobile phone reportedly revealed video footage showing him carrying an AK-47 rifle. The suspect attempted to flee but was swiftly apprehended by troops.
Items recovered from the suspect include a motorcycle, mobile phones, an ATM card, and an undisclosed sum of cash. He remains in military custody while investigations continue.
The Nigerian Army said the successful operations reflect its sustained offensive against terrorist and bandit groups operating across the North-West as security forces continue efforts to restore peace and protect lives and property in affected communities.
