The Nigerian Army says troops of its 33 Artillery Brigade, in conjunction with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) team, conducted an operation within the Dajin Madam Forest in Bauchi State, resulting in the successful clearing of several bandit camps, including the notorious Azuge and Hari camps, further disrupting the activities of criminal elements in the area.
A press statement from the Nigerian Army Headquarters explained that during the operation, the troops neutralised a number of bandits, while several others fled under sustained military pressure.
In addition, the suspected bandits’ family members, comprising six women and 13 children, were taken into custody.
Several motorcycles used by the alleged criminals for mobility were also destroyed, further limiting their operational capability, the headquarters said.
The statement added that a cache of items was recovered during the operation, including one AK-47 magazine, packs of Tramadol drugs, a pair of police uniform, several military uniforms and two horses, “all indicative of the group’s criminal activities and attempts at impersonation to commit criminalities.”
“Troops are currently maintaining a firm hold position within the Dajin Madam Forest to consolidate on the gains achieved and prevent any re-infiltration by fleeing bandits,” it said.
In a related development, the headquarters said troops conducted a follow-up clearance operation to Mainamaji as part of the exploitation of the general area following recent air strikes on bandit hideouts.
It said: “The operation recorded no contact, further suggesting that sustained military pressure has significantly degraded the presence and movement of bandits within the area.
“The continued success of these operations underscores the effectiveness of ongoing military offensives and the increasing dislocation of bandit networks.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its commitment to sustaining pressure on all criminal elements until lasting peace and security are restored.
“Members of the public are encouraged to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.”
