The Nigerian Army has foiled an attempted cattle rustling operation in Gwarzo Local Government Area of Kano State, recovering 257 livestock and repelling armed bandits.

This was contained in a statement signed by Major Babatunde Zubairu, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, on Sunday.

According to the statement, the operation was carried out by troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Gwarzo, led by soldiers of 3 Brigade, following a distress call from residents of Mainika village in the early hours of March 1, 2026.

The statement explained that at about 6:57 a.m., troops swiftly deployed to a suspected bandit route at Dayi village, where they ambushed and engaged the rustlers who had earlier attacked Mainika village and made away with livestock.

It added that the bandits, overwhelmed by superior firepower, fled in disarray towards Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, abandoning the stolen animals. The criminals were said to have suffered heavy casualties during the encounter.

Our sources reports that the Army also disclosed that the recovered livestock comprised 135 cows, 119 sheep, one goat and two donkeys, totaling 257 animals, which have been handed over to their rightful owners through local authorities.

The statement further noted that the Joint Task Force in Gwarzo includes personnel of the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and local vigilante groups.

It quoted the Commander, 3 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmad Tukur, as commending the troops for their bravery, vigilance and professionalism, while also appreciating the support of the local community in providing credible intelligence.

The Army assured that the situation in the area is under control, adding that surveillance and security operations have been intensified to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of lives and property.