A notorious bandit leader, “Ba?o-ba?o” along with his fighters, was neutralised on Thursday by Joint Security Forces in a clearance operation conducted on Batsari Forest in Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State.

Security sources said the operation was meticulously planned and executed by the troops of the Nigerian Army, the Police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Katsina Security Watch Corps with troops advancing into the bandits’ stronghold under the cover of dusk.

In a fierce gun battle, “Ba?o-ba?o” and his men were overwhelmed by the superior firepower and strategy of the combined forces.

Ba?o-ba?o who was responsible for violent attacks and kidnappings that terrorized a number of communities in Katsina State had for a while been in the crosshairs of security agencies in the state.

His death, according to a local community leader in Batsari LGA, is considered a major success in efforts to tackle banditry in the area.

“This is a huge step towards restoring peace to our villages. We commend the troops for their efforts and sacrifices. We are thankful for the sacrifices and efforts of the security forces in bringing peace to our region,” he noted. (Channels TV)