By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), have recorded major operational successes in separate operations across Zamfara and Kaduna States, including the interception of an arms courier and the recovery of 53 rustled cattle.
The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, confirmed the operations in a statement on Thursday, noting that the achievements reflect sustained efforts to disrupt criminal networks and restore security across the region.
According to the statement, troops of Sector 2 OPFY intercepted a civilian vehicle at a checkpoint in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State on 5 June 2026 while it was heading towards Shinkafi.
A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of a locally fabricated pistol, a magazine, and over 1,000 rounds of ammunition concealed inside a sack of millet.
The suspect, identified as 42-year-old Mustapha Abubakar, was arrested on the spot. He is suspected to be involved in the illegal movement of arms and ammunition to terrorist elements operating in the North-West.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect was en route to deliver the consignment to an accomplice, while efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the criminal network.
In a separate operation on 3 June 2026, troops of Sector 1 OPFY foiled a cattle rustling attempt in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State following a distress call from a herder.
The troops engaged the criminals along their escape route, forcing them to abandon the stolen livestock and flee into nearby bushes, leading to the recovery of 53 cattle which were later returned to the owner.
