Police operatives in Zamfara have dealt a significant blow to cattle rustlers operating in the state. The Violence Crime Response Unit and military personnel conducted a coordinated raid in Gummi Local Government Area on Saturday morning.
The joint operation targeted Gambanda Forest, a known bandit stronghold. Armed criminals put up fierce resistance during the encounter.
Security forces exchanged heavy gunfire with the militants throughout the tactical operation. Superior firepower and coordinated tactics forced the bandits to flee into deeper forest areas with what authorities suspect were gunshot wounds.
Operatives recovered 329 rustled cattle during the raid. They also seized 175 sheep, one AK-47 rifle, and fifteen rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
Police spokesperson DSP Yazid Abubakar confirmed the recovery in a statement released to journalists. He praised the bravery displayed by all personnel involved in the dangerous mission.
Commissioner of Police Ahmad Muhammad Bello commended the operation's success. "We are determined to put an end to banditry in Zamfara State," he stated.
Bello noted that his command remains committed to intensifying operations against criminal elements. He vowed to restore lasting peace across communities in the state.
Police leadership is urging residents to provide credible intelligence to security agencies. Officials say timely information from community members remains crucial to eliminating bandits from the region.
Cattle rustling and armed banditry have plagued Zamfara for years. The latest operation represents continued efforts to combat organized crime in the northwest.
