Troops have arrested five suspected cattle rustlers and recovered 31 cattle during a security operation in Kebbi State, according to a security update shared on Saturday.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed in a post on X that troops of 1 Battalion (Rear) carried out the operation on April 2 following intelligence reports on criminal and terrorist activities around Bachaka village in Arewa Local Government Area.

Acting on the intelligence, troops mounted a snap checkpoint along suspected crossing routes within the Kangiwa–Maiyama axis, where they intercepted a truck transporting livestock.

A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of 31 cattle, one sheep and one goat. Thirteen motorcycles were also discovered in the truck, and five suspects were arrested at the scene.

Local vigilantes later identified the suspects as individuals allegedly linked to cattle rustling activities in the Maiyama area.

The recovered animals have since been handed over to the Kebbi State Ministry of Livestock Development, while the suspects remain in military custody pending further investigation and possible prosecution.

Security operations are continuing in the area as troops intensify efforts to track down other members of the suspected criminal network.