JTF Foils Cattle Rustling Attempt in Gwarzo Local Government Area, Recovers 257 Livestock

The Joint Task Force (JTF) in Gwarzo has foiled an attempted cattle rustling incident at Mainika village, successfully recovering 257 livestock and repelling suspected bandits.

The operation, led by troops of 3 Brigade of the Nigerian Army with operational base in Gwarzo, followed a distress call in the early hours of March 1, 2026, at about 6:57 a.m. The troops swiftly deployed to a suspected bandits’ route and laid an ambush at Dayi village, where they engaged the rustlers who had earlier attacked Mainika village.

On sighting the security operatives, the armed bandits reportedly fled towards Malumfashi Local Government Area, abandoning the stolen animals. The troops recovered 135 cows, 119 sheep, one goat and two donkeys, bringing the total to 257 livestock. The recovered animals were subsequently handed over to their rightful owners through local authorities.

Security sources said the bandits suffered heavy casualties during the encounter, while no loss was recorded on the side of the security personnel. The JTF comprises troops of the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Police, the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and local vigilantes.

The Commander, 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Ahmad Tukur, commended the bravery and vigilance of the troops, noting that their morale and fighting spirit remain high. He also appreciated members of the local community for providing credible information that aided the success of the operation.

Authorities said the situation in the area remains under control, with regular surveillance ongoing to prevent further security breaches. The task force has been directed to intensify efforts to ensure the continued safety of lives and property in the area.