By Aminu Dalhatu
The Zamfara State Government has expressed deep concern over the recent escalation of bandit attacks in several parts of the state, assuring residents of its commitment to restoring lasting peace and security.
The State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Mahmud Mohammed Dantawasa, stated this at a news briefing on recent security situation held at government House Gusau where he outlined government interventions to tackle banditry and strengthen the protection of lives and property.
Dantawasa said the briefing was convened to address public concerns over the attacks, provide updates on ongoing security measures and reaffirm the government’s determination to end the persistent insecurity.
He identified Bindin and Falale in Maru Local Government Area, Damba and Wanke in Gusau local government, Bagega in Anka, and Moriki in Zurmi local governments as some of the communities affected by the recent attacks.
The commissioner noted that the incidents had heightened fears among residents and disrupted essential economic and social activities, including farming, trading and transportation.
Mahmud Dantawasa condemned attacks against innocent citizens and communities and described such criminal activities as unacceptable and a threat to the peace, unity and development of the state.
He assured residents that, the government was engaging relevant security agencies to strengthen responses to emerging threats and improve protection for vulnerable communities.
According to him, to strengthen security operations, he said the Zamfara State Government had previously provided 25 armoured vehicles and 150 Toyota Hilux vehicles to support security agencies across the state.
He added that motorcycles had also been provided to facilitate access to remote villages and areas with difficult terrain, while the government was covering fuel and other related logistical expenses.
Mahmud Dantawasa further disclosed that four security battalions had been allocated to Bakura, Shinkafi, Kaura Namoda and Anka Local Government Areas.
He described the allocation as an important component of joint efforts by the Federal and Zamfara State Governments to strengthen security coverage and improve the protection of lives and property.
The commissioner called for sustained cooperation between the two levels of government, particularly in intelligence sharing, operational coordination and the provision of adequate logistical support to security agencies.
The Commissioner also announced that, preparations were underway for dry-season security operations aimed at sustaining the fight against banditry and improving protection for affected communities.
He stressed the importance of securing farmlands as farmers prepare for increased agricultural activities during the dry season, noting that, residents must be able to pursue their livelihoods without fear of attacks or intimidation.
The commissioner also announced that the government was training 1,000 forest guards for deployment across the state’s local government areas to strengthen security in forested and rural communities.
He said the forest guards would be expected to operate under appropriate supervision, respect the law and work in coordination with authorised security agencies.
Dantawasa urged individuals involved in banditry to abandon criminal activities and surrender through recognised and lawful channels, stressing that, surrender should not be interpreted as automatic immunity from legal responsibility.
He also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, youth organisations and other stakeholders to promote peaceful coexistence and strengthen cooperation with security agencies.
The Commissioner urged residents to report suspicious movements and credible threats to the appropriate authorities while avoiding the spread of rumours, unverified reports and inflammatory messages capable of creating panic or endangering innocent people.
Mahmud Mohammed Dantawa called on the Federal Government to sustain and strengthen its support for security operations in Zamfara through improved coordination, intelligence sharing and the deployment of additional personnel where necessary.
He further encouraged residents to remain calm, vigilant and united, while continuing to pray for peace and security in the state and the country.
Dantawasa acknowledged the hardship experienced by families, farmers, traders and other residents, particularly those in rural communities whose daily activities had been disrupted by insecurity.
Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
