Troops of Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), have recorded fresh operational breakthroughs in coordinated missions across Zamfara and Kaduna States, intercepting a suspected arms dealer, recovering a large cache of ammunition, and foiling a cattle rustling operation.
In a decisive checkpoint operation on 5 June 2026, troops of Sector 2 OPFY stationed along Kaura Namoda axis intercepted a civilian vehicle heading towards Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a locally fabricated pistol, a magazine, and over 1,000 rounds of ammunition cleverly concealed inside a sack of millet.
The suspect, identified as a 42-year-old Mustapha Abubakar, was immediately arrested after preliminary findings suggested he was allegedly involved in the illegal movement of arms and ammunition to terrorist elements operating within the region.
Military sources revealed that the intercepted consignment was reportedly en route to an accomplice, prompting ongoing intelligence-led efforts to dismantle the wider criminal network behind the supply chain.
In a separate but related operation, troops of Sector 1 OPFY on 3 June 2026 swiftly foiled a violent cattle rustling attempt in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State after receiving a distress call from a local herder.
Acting on the information, troops strategically deployed along likely escape routes and engaged the criminals as they attempted to flee with stolen livestock. Overwhelmed by superior firepower, the rustlers abandoned the animals and escaped into surrounding bushland.
A total of 53 rustled cattle were successfully recovered and returned to their rightful owner.
The Theatre Command described the dual operations as a clear demonstration of sustained pressure on armed criminal groups, noting that troops remain committed to disrupting arms trafficking networks and safeguarding rural livelihoods across the North-West theatre.
Authorities also commended the vigilance of personnel and urged residents to continue providing timely intelligence, describing community support as critical to ongoing counter-banditry and counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
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