Operation FANSAN YAMMA Recovers 6 Cows, Arrests 4 Lakurawa Suspects

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have recovered six rustled cows and ₦165,000 in cash during an intelligence-led operation at Darusa Village Market in Gudu Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The operation, conducted on Thursday morning, also led to the arrest of four suspected members or collaborators of the Lakurawa terrorist network, which has been linked to cattle rustling and other criminal activities across the North-West region.

According to a report shared on X by security analyst Zagazola Makama on Friday, personnel from Sector 2 of the operation moved into the market following credible intelligence that suspected terrorists had entered the premises to sell stolen livestock. The troops identified and apprehended the suspects before the transaction could be completed. In addition to the livestock and cash, two mobile phones believed to be connected to the illegal cattle Trade were recovered.

The arrested individuals were identified as Usman Bammo, 45, from Huss Village in Gudu LGA; Muhammadu Dage, 25, from Birnin Kebbi in Kebbi State; Ali Usman, 23, from Binji LGA; and Abubakar Garba, 30, from Silame LGA. Military sources indicated that preliminary investigations suggest the suspects are affiliated with or collaborating with the Lakurawa network, a group known for orchestrating livestock theft and violent attacks in Sokoto and neighbouring states.

All four suspects remain in military custody for further questioning. They are expected to be transferred to the appropriate security agency for continued investigation and possible prosecution. The successful interception underscores the ongoing reliance on actionable intelligence to disrupt criminal supply chains in the region, where cattle rustling continues to fuel instability and economic loss for rural communities.

Operation FANSAN YAMMA, a joint security initiative, has intensified patrols and market surveillance in recent months to curb the movement of stolen animals. Authorities have urged residents to report suspicious activities, emphasizing that community cooperation remains vital to sustaining security gains across the North-West.