Security forces seize terrorist hideouts, demolish supply chains in Bauchi woodland

In a significant escalation of their campaign against bandits, Nigerian Army troops have launched a series of intense operations in Bauchi State, targeting enemy strongholds in the Dajin Madam forest and achieving major successes, including the capture of family members and the destruction of essential supplies.

n

This development is outlined in an operational report released on Wednesday in Abuja, which details the accomplishments of the 33 Artillery Brigade and a team from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in a joint clearance operation.

n

The operation resulted in the successful clearance of several bandit camps, most notably the Azuge and Hari camps, thereby disrupting the criminals' ability to operate within the forest, and neutralizing several bandits while forcing others to flee under intense military pressure.

n

A total of 19 family members of the bandits, consisting of six women and 13 children, were taken into custody by the troops, while a range of items were recovered, including an AK-47 magazine, tramadol drugs, and materials linked to impersonation, as well as a pair of police uniforms and several military uniforms.

n

Additionally, two horses were seized by the troops, and several motorcycles used by the bandits were destroyed, thereby limiting their mobility and operational capability, as stated in the report.

n

Troops have established a strong presence within the forest, aimed at consolidating their gains and preventing the re-infiltration of bandits who had fled, according to the report, which highlights the military's efforts to maintain pressure on the enemy.

n

In a related development, a follow-up clearance operation was conducted by troops at Mainamaji, following recent air strikes on bandit hideouts, and although no contact was made during the operation, it indicates that sustained military pressure has weakened the bandits' presence in the area.

n

The ongoing operations have continued to disrupt the bandits' networks and restrict their freedom of movement, as noted in the report, which reaffirms the Nigerian Army's commitment to maintaining pressure on criminal elements until lasting peace and security are restored.

n

The report also appeals to the public to provide security agencies with timely and credible information to support their efforts in combating crime and ensuring public safety.