Zamfara police recover 329 cattle and 175 sheep during a joint operation that also led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and ammunition

The Zamfara State Police Command has recovered 329 rustled cattle, 175 sheep, an AK-47 rifle and 15 rounds of live ammunition following a joint security operation against suspected bandits in Gumi Local Government Area of the state.

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The operation was carried out in the early hours of Friday by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit working alongside military personnel in the Gambanda Forest, a location that has witnessed repeated security challenges linked to bandit activities.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Yazid Abubakar, disclosed the development in a statement issued to journalists on Saturday.

According to Abubakar, the operation commenced at about 2:30 a.m. on June 20 after security operatives received intelligence on the activities of armed criminals in the area.

“On June 20, 2026, at about 2:30 a.m., operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit, in collaboration with military personnel, carried out a tactical operation at Gambanda Forest in Gumi Local Government Area of the state,” the statement said.

During the operation, the joint security team reportedly encountered armed bandits, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire.

“During the operation, the joint security team engaged armed bandits in a fierce gun duel.

“The superior firepower and tactical response of the operatives forced the criminals to flee into the forest with possible injuries, successfully repelling the attack,” Abubakar stated.

The police said the operation resulted in the recovery of a significant number of livestock believed to have been rustled by the fleeing bandits.

“As a result of the operation, the security team recovered 329 rustled cattle, 175 sheep, one AK-47 rifle and 15 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition,” the statement added.

The recovery represents one of the notable livestock seizures recorded by security agencies in Zamfara in recent months as authorities continue efforts to curb cattle rustling, kidnapping and other forms of rural banditry that have affected communities across the state.

Zamfara remains one of the states most impacted by armed banditry in north-west Nigeria, with security agencies intensifying joint operations involving the police, military and other security formations to dismantle criminal networks operating in forests and remote settlements.

Reacting to the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police in Zamfara State, Ahmad Bello, praised the officers and soldiers involved for their bravery and professionalism.

Abubakar said Bello commended the operatives for demonstrating courage, resilience and tactical efficiency in confronting the criminals despite the risks involved.

The commissioner also reiterated the command’s determination to sustain pressure on bandit groups and restore peace to affected communities across the state.

He urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence capable of assisting ongoing operations against criminal elements.

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The police expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between security agencies and local communities would further strengthen efforts to tackle insecurity and safeguard lives and property throughout Zamfara State.