Thirty Eight armed bandits were neutralized by the troops of Operation Sahel Sanity in Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara States in continued fights against banditry, cattle rustling and kidnappings in North West zone.
The Acting Director, Defence Media Operations, Brigadier General Benard Onyeuko made this known at a press conference held at Army Special Super Camp 4 Faskari, Katsina State.
Represented by the Nigerian Army Operations Media Coordinator, Colonel Aminu Iliyasu, said the troops have also rescued 109 kidnapped victims after destroying several bandits’ camps.
According to him, the intensified operations by the troops has led to the degradation of the bandits and their activities to the barest minimum as indicative by the successes recorded.
He added that, these gains are gradually bringing stability and normalcy back to the zone as evident by the massive resumption of farming and socio-economic activities through out the State and beyond.
Brigadier General Onyeaku further explained that, operations conducted between September 4-October 25, 2020, 38 armed bandits were neutralized while 93 suspected bandits logistics suppliers and collaborators were also arrested.
The Defence Media Chief further explained that, 30 Dane guns, 941 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammunition and 5 live cartridges were captured during various encounters with troops.
In addition to that, a total of 131 cows, 154 sheep/rams, one camel were recovered as well as 108 kidnapped victims were rescued, 90 bandits informants and collaborators, 3 rustled cattle marketers and 12 bandits logistics suppliers were arrested.
Similarly, a total of 10 bandit’s camps and their logistics bases were destroyed by troops of Operation Sahel Sanity while 47 bandits coordinated attacks on number of innocent communities and 31 kidnap incidents were foiled by the troops on Incessant patrols and timely response to distress calls.
SANI HARUNA