Troops crush Terrorists, recover 529 rustled livestock in Katsina clash

Abdullateef Fowewe

Troops from Forward Operation Base (FOB) Malumfashi, under the 17 Brigade Nigerian Army, achieved a major victory on February 7, 2026, by recovering 529 rustled livestock after intense fighting with suspected terrorists in Kafur Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The operation according to a statement on Sunday by Captain Aboyomi Adisa, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 17 Brigade, stemmed from credible intelligence about terrorists moving around Kasuwan Sabo, reportedly infiltrating from neighbouring Zamfara State under Idi Abasu Aiki, brother of bandit leader Ado Aliero.

Led by Lieutenant Colonel MM Isa, the troops mobilised swiftly.

“On sighting the advancing troops, the terrorists opened fire, but the troops responded with superior firepower, forcing the criminals to flee into the surrounding bushes,” stated Adisa.

Pursuing the fleeing group between Burdugau and Unguwan Matau villages in Malumfashi LGA, soldiers compelled the terrorists to abandon their haul.

An extensive sweep yielded 290 cows, 238 sheep, one donkey, and one motorcycle. Sadly, 14 cows used as shields by the terrorists died in the crossfire, but no Nigerian troops were harmed.

The livestock was handed over to local authorities for verification and return to owners, overseen by Kafur LGA Chairman Suraju Nature and Divisional Police Officer Superintendent Aminu Salihu.

“The operation recorded no casualty on the side of own troops, underscoring the professionalism and combat effectiveness of the troops,” the statement highlighted.

Major General Paul Koughna, GOC 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, praised the troops’ gallantry and vowed continued aggressive action against criminals.

Patrols in the area persist to curb terrorist movements, the statement confirmed.