Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have recovered a large number of cattle allegedly rustled by suspected terrorists in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The troops reportedly intercepted the fleeing suspects along the Tambuwal–Gadaichi–Gummi axis on Monday morning after receiving intelligence about their movement from Asarara Kaura community.
A military source familiar with the operation said the suspects opened fire when confronted by the troops, leading to a gun battle.
The source said the terrorists eventually fled into nearby bushes, with some reportedly sustaining gunshot wounds, while abandoning the cattle.
The source stated, “The troops responded to credible intelligence and intercepted the terrorists along the Tambuwal–Gadaichi–Gummi axis.
“They engaged the troops but were forced to flee into the bushes, some of them sustaining gunshot wounds. They abandoned the cattle while escaping.”
According to the source, the recovered livestock has been taken into military custody pending verification to establish their rightful owners.
He added, “The cattle will be handed over to the rightful owners after proper verification. The objective is to ensure that the recovered livestock gets back to the affected communities.”
The recovery is expected to provide relief to residents whose livelihoods have been affected by persistent cattle rustling in the area.
The operation is also part of ongoing efforts by troops under Operation Fansan Yamma to disrupt terrorist activities and recover property allegedly seized from communities across the North-West.
