By Ibrahim Idris, Bauchi
Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised scores of bandits and recovered police and military uniforms and nacotic drugs during sustained clearance operations in Bauchi State, as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the region.
The operation, carried out by soldiers of the 33 Artillery Brigade in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), targeted bandit strongholds within the Dajin Madam Forest. During the offensive, several notorious camps, including Azuge and Hari camps, were successfully overrun and destroyed, dealing a significant blow to the bandits’ operational base.
According to a statement posted on the official Facebook Page of the Nigerian Army Headquarters, many bandits were killed in the encounter, while others fled under intense pressure from advancing troops.
The operation also led to the arrest of suspected accomplices, including six women and 13 children linked to the criminal groups.
Troops further destroyed motorcycles used by the bandits, limiting their mobility and capacity to launch attacks.
In the course of the operation, soldiers recovered a cache of items, including an AK-47 magazine, packs of tramadol, a police uniform, several military uniforms, and two horses.
The recovered materials point to the group’s involvement in criminal activities, including impersonation and illicit drug use.
Troops have since established a strong presence in the forest to prevent the regrouping or return of fleeing bandits.
In a follow-up operation to Mainamaji, conducted after recent airstrikes on suspected hideouts, no contact was made with criminal elements, an indication that sustained military pressure has significantly weakened their presence in the area.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to maintaining momentum in ongoing operations until all threats are eliminated and normalcy is fully restored. Residents have also been urged to continue providing timely and credible information to support security efforts.
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