In a significant blow to banditry in Nigeria’s North-West region, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed the elimination of scores of bandits in a series of targeted airstrikes in Zamfara State. Naija247news gathered that the operation, conducted on Tuesday, focused on bandit hideouts in the Zurmi and Maru Local Government Areas, known hotspots for criminal activities.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!According to Naija247news, the airstrikes were carried out following credible intelligence reports that revealed the bandits were planning to launch attacks on nearby communities. NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, stated that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to rid the region of criminal elements and restore peace. “Our troops executed precision strikes on identified bandit enclaves, resulting in the neutralization of several terrorists and the destruction of their logistics base,” he said.
Naija247news understands that the operation also destroyed motorcycles, weapons, and other equipment used by the bandits to carry out their operations. This development has been hailed as a major victory in the fight against insecurity in the region, which has witnessed a surge in kidnappings, killings, and cattle rustling in recent months.
Local residents have expressed relief at the news, with many describing the airstrikes as a turning point in the battle against banditry. “We have suffered for too long at the hands of these criminals. This operation gives us hope that peace is possible,” said Mallam Ibrahim Sani, a community leader in Zurmi.
However, security experts have cautioned that while the airstrikes are commendable, a more comprehensive approach is needed to address the root causes of banditry. Naija247news reports that poverty, unemployment, and weak governance have been identified as key drivers of criminality in the region.
According to Naija247news, the NAF has intensified its operations in the North-West in collaboration with ground troops and other security agencies. The recent success in Zamfara is seen as a testament to the effectiveness of this coordinated approach.
Meanwhile, the Zamfara State Government has commended the military for its efforts and called for sustained operations to completely eradicate banditry. “We are grateful for the sacrifices of our security forces. Together, we will restore peace and prosperity to our state,” said Governor Dauda Lawal.
As the dust settles in Zamfara, the NAF’s latest victory serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against insecurity in Nigeria. According to Naija247news, the success of this operation underscores the importance of intelligence-driven strategies and inter-agency collaboration in achieving lasting peace.
