In a significant victory against banditry in Katsina State, Governor Dikko Radda has praised the joint air and ground military operation for dismantling entrenched bandit camps around Bichi Hill. This collaborative effort has been described as a strategic blow to criminal networks terrorizing local communities in the state.
On December 19, 2024, the combined efforts of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army executed precision strikes on key bandit locations. This operation was part of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, a coordinated military campaign aimed at restoring peace and stability in Katsina and the North West region.
The operation followed detailed intelligence reports and surveillance missions that exposed the activities of notorious bandit leaders, including Manore and Lalbi. These groups were responsible for violent attacks, cattle rustling, and abductions in local communities such as Maidabino, Yantumaki, and Danmusa.
According to a statement by Dr. Nasir Muazu, Katsina State’s Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, the military acted on credible intelligence reports detailing the location of bandit hideouts. The mission was executed in phases:
- Precision Airstrikes:
The Nigerian Air Force launched targeted airstrikes on the identified camps, neutralizing a significant number of bandits and dismantling key operational facilities. - Ground Assault:
As some of the bandits attempted to regroup, ground troops engaged in prolonged firefights, ensuring no escape routes were left unguarded. - Final Sweep:
Surviving bandits who tried to flee on motorcycles were tracked and targeted, leaving them with no safe haven. The operation resulted in the destruction of their camps and operational capacity.
This operation marks a pivotal moment in the state’s ongoing battle against insecurity. The destruction of bandit hideouts around Bichi Hill has weakened bandit networks by dismantling the infrastructure used for coordinating criminal activities. It has restored community confidence, enabling local residents in Danmusa, Safana, and Kankara Local Government Areas to begin rebuilding their lives with a renewed sense of security. Additionally, it has enhanced military morale, underscoring the efficiency of joint military operations and the importance of strategic intelligence.
Governor Dikko Radda commended the unwavering commitment of the troops, stating:
“The Government of Katsina State, on behalf of its peace-loving citizens, commends the joint efforts of the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and the 17 Brigade. This latest operation serves as a strong deterrent to any future attempts to establish criminal enclaves in the area.”
The governor also emphasized the importance of sustaining such operations to ensure lasting peace in the region.
As Katsina State intensifies efforts to combat banditry, collaboration between security forces, local governments, and community stakeholders remains vital. The latest operation is a testament to the power of coordinated intelligence and swift action in addressing security challenges. By maintaining momentum in the fight against banditry, Katsina State aims to foster an environment of peace and stability that will encourage economic growth and social development.
Source: PUNCH
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