Katsina governor applauds joint military efforts in combating banditry

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, lauded the joint air and ground operation on Thursday for its successful raid on the established bandits’ camps at Bichi Hill.

According to information gathered, the air component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and troops of the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Katsina State launched attacks against the notorious bandits’ kingpins, Manore, Lalbi and

their cohorts on December 19, 2024, following credible intelligence revealing the establishment of bandit camps around Bichi Hill, which had intensified banditry activities in Danmusa, Safana, and Kankara Local Government Areas of the state.

As stated in a release signed by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Muazu, and made available to newsmen on Thursday, the successful operations followed an intelligence report of the daredevils’ activities in and around the areas.

The statement further revealed that, “The mission followed credible intelligence reports and several Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, which identified the bandits’ hideouts. These criminals had been responsible for multiple cases of abductions, cattle rustling, and violent attacks on communities including Maidabino, Yantumaki, and Danmusa in Katsina State.”

"Upon verifying the targets, NAF attack platforms carried out robust precision airstrikes, bombing the designated locations in multiple passes. The remaining bandits attempted to regroup at Bichi Hill but encountered a fierce ground assault as advancing troops clashed with them in intense firefights".

"In spite of their resistance, some bandits retreated and sought shelter beneath nearby trees". The Air Component quickly re-engaged the area, conducting additional strikes on the concealed bandits. As the surviving bandits attempted to flee on motorcycles, air platforms tracked them to their new assembly point and conducted another successful strike.

“The joint air and ground operation resulted in the neutralisation of scores of bandits, with several others sustaining injuries. Their hideouts and key operational facilities around the high ground were also destroyed, marking a significant blow to their operational capacity.”

Speaking further, the governor commended the joint efforts of the team in neutralising the daredevil bandits, saying, “The Government of Katsina State, on behalf of its peace-loving citizens, commends the joint efforts of the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 2 and 17 Brigade.

"Undoubtedly, the troops' steadfast dedication to reestablishing peace and stability in the state and the broader North West region is praiseworthy.

"The recent operation has drastically weakened the operational capacity of the bandits and serves as a powerful deterrent to any future attempts to establish criminal enclaves in the area".

Source: Punchng.com