Security operatives in Zamfara State have recovered hundreds of rustled livestock and an assault rifle following a joint operation targeting bandits in the state’s Gumi Local Government Area.
The operation, carried out by personnel of the Zamfara State Police Command and the military, led to the recovery of 329 cattle, 175 sheep, one AK-47 rifle and 15 rounds of live ammunition.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Yazid Abubakar, said the operation took place in the early hours of June 20 at Gambanda Forest.
According to him, “At about 2:30 a.m. on June 20, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit, working alongside military personnel, launched a tactical operation in Gambanda Forest, Gumi Local Government Area.”
Abubakar explained that the security team encountered armed bandits during the operation, leading to an exchange of gunfire.
“The joint team engaged the criminals in a fierce gun duel. Due to the superior firepower and tactical response of the operatives, the bandits were forced to flee into the forest, possibly with gunshot injuries,” he said.
He added that the operation resulted in the recovery of the rustled animals and weapons.
“As a result of the operation, the team successfully recovered 329 rustled cattle, 175 sheep, one AK-47 rifle and 15 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition,” the police spokesman stated.
Abubakar noted that the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ahmad Bello, praised the operatives for their bravery and professionalism during the mission.
“The Commissioner of Police commended the courage, resilience and commitment demonstrated by the officers and reaffirmed the command’s determination to eliminate banditry and restore peace across Zamfara State,” he said.
He also appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could assist ongoing efforts to tackle criminal activities in the state.
