Troops Record Major Success, Recover Rustled Livestock in Kafur LGA of Katsina State
Katsina State, Nigeria, February 7, 2026
Troops of the Forward Operation Base (FOB) Malumfashi, under Headquarters 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, have recorded a major operational success with the recovery of 529 rustled livestock following a fierce engagement with suspected terrorists in Kafur Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The operation, led by Lieutenant Colonel MM Isa, Commanding Officer of FOB Malumfashi, was conducted on 7 February 2026 after the troops received credible intelligence regarding the movement and activities of terrorists around Kasuwan Sabo in Kafur LGA.
Preliminary findings revealed that the terrorists were suspected to have infiltrated the area from neighbouring Zamfara State. They were allegedly led by Idi Abasu Aiki, believed to be the younger brother of the notorious bandit leader Ado Aliero. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, troops of FOB Malumfashi immediately mobilised and advanced to the area.
Upon sighting the advancing troops, the terrorists opened fire. The troops responded with superior firepower, forcing the criminals to flee into the surrounding bushes while attempting to escape with some of the rustled livestock. Troops immediately embarked on a hot pursuit and caught up with the fleeing terrorists between Burdugau and Unguwan Matau villages in Malumfashi Local Government Area, compelling them to abandon the stolen animals.
Following an extensive sweep of the general area, troops decisively defeated the fleeing terrorists and successfully recovered a total of 529 livestock, comprising 290 cows, 238 sheep, one donkey, as well as one motorcycle. Regrettably, 14 cows, reportedly used as shields by the terrorists, were killed during the crossfire. The operation recorded no casualties on the side of the troops, underscoring their professionalism and combat effectiveness.
The recovered livestock were subsequently handed over to the relevant authorities for verification and return to their rightful owners. The process was supervised by Honourable Suraju Nature, Chairman of Kafur Local Government Area, and Superintendent of Police Aminu Salihu, Divisional Police Officer, Kafur.
The General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Paul Koughna, has commended the gallantry, discipline, and professionalism displayed by the troops. He reassured the public of the Nigerian Army’s continued commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against all criminal elements within the Division’s Area of Responsibility.
Troops of FOB Malumfashi have continued to dominate the general area through sustained aggressive patrols aimed at denying terrorists freedom of action.
ABAYOMI ADISA
Captain
Acting Assistant Director
Army Public Relations
17 Brigade, Nigerian Army
7 February 2026
