This was revealed in a statement by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, on 22 June 2026.
According to the statement, troops of Sector 1 carried out coordinated operations across parts of Kaduna State as part of sustained efforts to combat terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities in the North West and beyond.
On 20 June 2026, troops acted on credible intelligence regarding cattle rustling in a community within the state. On arrival, they engaged fleeing suspects in a firefight, neutralising two suspected bandits. Weapons, ammunition and rustled livestock were recovered during the operation. The swift response disrupted the criminal activity, though one civilian reportedly lost his life due to actions of the fleeing criminals.
In another operation on the same day, troops on night patrol intercepted two suspected bandits. A search of the suspects reportedly uncovered digital materials linking them to terrorist and bandit networks. The suspects are currently in custody and under investigation.
On 21 June 2026, troops on fighting patrol encountered armed criminals, who fled into nearby bushes under pressure. The troops pursued and arrested two suspected bandit scouts, recovering motorcycles and communication devices containing incriminating evidence. Investigations are ongoing.
Also on 21 June 2026, troops responded to a civil disturbance in Mararraba community following the mob killing of a female suspect accused of child trafficking. The mob reportedly attempted to attack public infrastructure and block a major highway, but security forces restored order, dispersed the crowd, secured key facilities and ensured free movement of commuters.
The Theatre Commander commended the troops for their discipline and effectiveness, noting that the operations reflect the military’s resolve to sustain pressure on criminal elements. He assured residents that intelligence-driven operations will continue to degrade criminal networks and improve security across the region.