By RABIU SANI-ALI

Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised many bandits and destroyed their camps in coordinated operations in Bauchi State, Gov. Bala Mohammed has confirmed.

Mohammed, while briefing newsmen at the end of a closed door security meeting on Monday in Bauchi, said the military conducted successful operations in synergy with the Police, other security agencies and vigilantes.

“The operations routed bandits’ enclaves in Dajin Malam Forest linking Bauchi, Plateau and Taraba.

“The troops neutralised thousands of bandits, destroyed camps and motorcycles. They also disrupted their supply routes forcing many of them to flee.

“The troops dismantled several bandits camps.

“Four war planes bombed the bandits and successfully cleared several camps, disrupting criminal activities within the forests. Several bandits were neutralised while others fled under sustained military pressure.

“Several motorcycles used by the criminals were destroyed, limiting their mobility and operational capability,” he said.

Mohammed said the state government had provided a temporary surrender window to the bandits, and urged them to lay down their arms, to consolidate recent security gains.

He emphasised the need for a balanced approach that combines enforcement with an opportunity for rehabilitation.

“We are calling on those still hiding to surrender within this period. This is not amnesty, but a chance to return and reintegrate under the government supervision,” Mohammed said.

He said that arrangements were being made to relocate surrendered bandits and their families, adding that most of them were not indigenes of the state.

The governor announced plans to conduct a biometric data capture of residents in the affected communities as part of broader security reforms to end banditry, ensure peace and stability.

Mohammed said the government would adopt strict surveillance mechanisms, intelligence-led monitoring and verification of activities in markets, motor parks and public spaces.

He said the state government would also strengthen community-based security systems via recruitment and supports to vigilantes to enable them to complement security agencies.

The governor said the biometric data profiling would be conducted in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), and other relevant agencies, to ensure proper documentation and monitoring of population movements in high-risk areas.

According to Mohammed, the measures aim to prevent the existence of ungoverned spaces that could serve as safe havens for criminal elements.

He enjoined residents to be vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to enhance security and prevent the re-emergence of criminal hideouts across the state.

“We are taking these measures to ensure that no space is left ungoverned or unmonitored, so that criminal elements cannot regroup or threaten our communities again,” he said.

Mohammed lauded President Bola Tinubu for the prompt response and decisive actions against the bandits.

He also commended the troops for establishing firm hold within the forest to consolidate gains and prevent re-infiltration by the fleeing bandits.

The governor reiterated his commitment to the protection of lives and property through effective collaboration with security agencies and traditional institutions. (NAN)

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