Military Nabs Terrorist Collaborator in Zamfara, Recovers 318 Rustled Livestock in Katsina
Security forces have recorded fresh successes in ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations across the North-West, with the arrest of a suspected terrorist collaborator in Zamfara State and the recovery of 318 rustled livestock during an offensive against bandits in Katsina State.
Military sources disclosed that troops of the Theatre Strike Team, working in conjunction with personnel of the 1 Brigade Counter-Terrorism Unit 2, arrested a suspected terrorist collaborator during a security operation in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The suspect, identified as a teenager, was apprehended at about 10:00 a.m. on June 17 at a Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) checkpoint along the Kaura Namoda–Zurmi Road following intelligence-led screening by security personnel.
According to the sources, preliminary investigations linked the suspect to activities supporting terrorist elements operating within the area. The suspect is currently in military custody and undergoing further investigation to determine the extent of his involvement and possible connections to criminal networks.
In a separate operation on the same day, troops of the 17 Brigade recovered 318 rustled livestock during a major offensive targeting suspected bandit enclaves in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
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Military sources said the operation was executed on two fronts following Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions that identified key criminal hideouts. Air assets subsequently conducted precision strikes on three suspected terrorist locations to weaken the bandits’ operational capabilities ahead of the ground assault.
One column of troops advanced through Karaduwa, Farin Tafki, Saura and Radawa towards Tuga, while a second column moved through Sayaya, Gangule and Radawa to the objective area.
During the operation, troops successfully cleared several communities and intercepted 318 livestock believed to have been stolen by bandits. The recovered animals were evacuated to a military base for documentation and further action.
The troops also responded to retaliatory attacks by suspected bandits on Tuga and Kuka Maidamisa villages. The attacks were reportedly carried out against residents accused by the criminals of providing information that facilitated the rescue of kidnapped victims, including one Mrs Amina Abubakar.
Following the engagements, troops conducted further exploitation operations in surrounding areas to consolidate gains and prevent the regrouping of criminal elements. No additional significant threats were encountered during the follow-up operations.
Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling terrorist and bandit networks across the North-West. They also urged members of the public to continue providing credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to restore peace and security in affected communities.
By PRNigeria
