From Sani Haruna (Zamfara)
Troops of Operation Sahel Sanity have killed 220 bandits, destroyed 197 camps, rescued 642 kidnapped victims and arrested 147 informants in the northwest zone.
The Acting Director, Defence Media Operation, Brigadier General Bernard Onyeku stated this in a press briefing at Army Super Camp IV Faskari, Katsina State.
Brigadier Onyeku said the gallant troops within the period under review carried out series of clearance operations, ambushes, farm and other aggressive confidence-building patrols within Sokoto, Katsina, Kebbi, Kaduna, Niger and Zamfara States.
According to him, 73 AK 47 Rifles, one GPMG and 194 Dane guns were captured from the criminals adding that, 5,032 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 568 rounds of 7.62 mm NATO ammunition and 156 live cartridges were also captured by the troops.
He further said 197 bandits’ camps and hideouts including the notorious Dangote Triangle and several bandits’ logistics bases were destroyed by troops of Operation SAHEL SANITY.
Brigadier Onyeku explained that, 335 suspected bandits, 326 illegal miners, 147 bandits informants and collaborators, 14 bandits arms suppliers, 24 rustled cattle marketers and 46 bandits logistics suppliers were arrested.
“Similarly, a total of 7,761 Cows, 1,867 Sheep/Rams and 4 Camels were recovered and given back to their owners by troops within the period.”
He further gave account of the total of 642 rescued teams which includes the 344 students of Government Science Secondary School Kankara.
The Acting Director of Media noted that within the period, the gallant troops successfully foiled 165 bandits’ attacks and 81 kidnap attempts.
He said the troops have intensified their offensive clearance operations, fighting patrols and ambush.
Brigadier Onyeku however commended the gallant troops of Operation SAHEL SANITY for their gallantry, sacrifices, successes and professionalism exhibited within the period of operation.
Brigadier Onyeku said people of the North-West zone of the country are also appreciated for their cooperation in providing timely information leading to the success of the operations.
The Acting Director of Media further reassured of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to restore total peace in the zone and indeed the country.