BANDITRY: Gov Matawalle commends military, security agencies on  successes recorded in Zamfara

By IBRAHIM KANOMA, Gusau

Zamfara State Governor, Hon Mohammed Bello Matawalle, has commended security agencies in the state on the recent achievements of victory against bandits.

He expressed his heartfelt gratitude during a statewide broadcast and appreciate the security agents for their sustained efforts in protecting the communities and crushing banditry and other crimes in all parts of Zamfara State. 

He said for too long, the good people of Zamfara State had lived in fear of bandits, who plagued our communities, causing untold suffering and hardship.

These criminal elements have shown no regard for the lives and well-being of our citizens and have terrorized our State with their ruthless acts of violence in various forms.

He further said the ongoing crackdown on notorious bandits who have been terrorizing locals around Dansadau emirate, particularly at Malele in Mutunji District and nearby communities.

He said on the 18th day of December 2022, the security forces carried out a well-coordinated aerial and ground onslaught on the enclaves of the recalcitrant bandits who were planning to invade Muntunji, Malele, and other surrounding villages.

“The successful preemptive offensive by the gallant military forces has yielded significant results worthy of commendation. Several bandits have been neutralized, their settlements destroyed, and a large cache of their weaponry recovered. It was a complex and daring operation by our brave security forces which has immensely contributed to making the communities around Dansadau axis safer,” he said.

He added that, “The success of this operation is a testament to the bravery and dedication of our armed forces.”

He thanked the security forces, particularly the Nigerian Army and Air Force for their efforts, saying “we are witnessing a significant turning point in the fight against these bandits. In recent operations, our armed forces have successfully taken out scores of bandits, bringing an end to their reign of terror and bringing much-needed relief to our people.”

He said, “This is a momentous occasion, and I want to take this opportunity to thank the brave men and women of the Nigerian army and air force who have risked their lives to protect our communities. Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and I am deeply grateful for their service to our dear State”

The governor said he is aware that in the course of the onslaught against these barbarous elements, scores of lives have been lost from the sides of the friendly communities and the security forces and used the opportunity to condole with the military authorities, families, and colleagues of the fallen heroes over the loss and equally commiserate with the families of those who lost their lives in the course of the operations in our various communities.

The government will support the injured and the families of those who lost their lives from the side of the affected communities and the security forces.

He said while we celebrate the recent successes, we must also recognize that there is still much work to be done. The fight against banditry is ongoing, and we must remain vigilant in our efforts to bring these criminals to justice and ensure the safety and security of our communities.

He reassure the people that his administration will remain committed to working closely with the Nigerian army, air force, and other security forces to continue the fight against banditry and will do everything to provide the necessary resources and support to our armed forces so that they can continue to keep our communities safe and secure.13. I also want to take this opportunity to urge our people to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Your cooperation is essential in the fight against banditry, and together we can work to create a safer and more secure Zamfara State for all, he emphasize.