Troops of the Nigerian Army have recorded a major operational success in Katsina State following the recovery of 529 rustled livestock after a fierce engagement with suspected terrorists in Kafur Local Government Area.
The operation was carried out by troops of Forward Operation Base (FOB) Malumfashi under Headquarters 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army, on Friday, 7 February 2026.
According to a statement by the Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 17 Brigade, Capt. Abayomi Adisa, shared on the Nigerian Army’s Facebook page on Sunday, the troops acted on credible intelligence indicating the movement of terrorists around the Kasuwan Sabo area of the Kafur Local Government Area.
The operation was led by the Commanding Officer, FOB Malumfashi, Lieutenant Colonel MM Isa.
Preliminary intelligence revealed that the terrorists were suspected to have infiltrated the area from neighbouring Zamfara State and were allegedly led by Idi Abasu Aiki, believed to be the younger brother of notorious bandit leader, Ado Aliero.
Upon advancing to the location, the troops came under fire from the terrorists.
However, the soldiers responded with superior firepower, forcing the criminals to flee into the surrounding bushes while attempting to escape with some of the rustled livestock.
The troops immediately embarked on a hot pursuit and caught up with the fleeing terrorists between Burdugau and Unguwan Matau villages in Malumfashi Local Government Area.
The sustained pressure compelled the terrorists to abandon the livestock and retreat further into the bush.
An extensive sweep of the area led to the recovery of a total of 529 livestock, including 290 cows, 238 sheep, and one donkey, as well as one motorcycle.
Fourteen cows were reportedly killed during the exchange of fire, as the terrorists allegedly used them as shields.
It was reported that Nno casualties were recorded among the troops.
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The recovered animals were subsequently handed over to the relevant authorities for verification and returned to their rightful owners.
The process was supervised by the Chairman of Kafur Local Government Area, Honourable Suraju Nature, and the Divisional Police Officer of Kafur, Superintendent of Police Aminu Salihu.
Commending the troops, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Paul Koughna, praised their gallantry and professionalism.
He reassured residents of the Nigerian Army’s continued commitment to sustained offensive operations against criminal elements across the Division’s Area of Responsibility.
Meanwhile, troops of FOB Malumfashi have continued aggressive patrols in the area to deny terrorists freedom of action and ensure lasting security.
