Army foil bandits’ ambush, recover AK-47 in Plateau

A security analyst has raised alarms about a suspected bandit base in Sokoto State, alleging that armed groups have occupied an abandoned village and turned it into a key operational hub. According to Bashir Altine, the village of Adarawa in Isa Local Government Area has been transformed into a stronghold by bandits under the leadership of notorious figures such as Chimo, Haru Dole, and Mai Kidni. The analyst claims that the bandits have taken over critical infrastructure, including the local school and health center, after residents fled due to sustained attacks. Altine detailed how the bandits have established sleeping pits, constructed makeshift shelters equipped with new mattresses, and placed motorcycles throughout the village. He noted that a nearby hill has become a crucial vantage point for monitoring the surrounding areas. The analyst emphasized that this base allows the bandits to plan and execute attacks on neighboring communities, including Unguwar Lalle, Lajinge, and Dan Tudu. He urged security agencies to take immediate action to dismantle the camp before it becomes more entrenched. The situation in Sokoto State has worsened with reports of increased displacement among residents fleeing bandit attacks. In Goronyo Local Government Area, a significant number of internally displaced persons, including women and children, have sought refuge after renewed violence in neighboring Sabon Birni. This follows a pattern of attacks that have forced communities to abandon their homes in search of safety. Efforts to contact the Sokoto State police command for comment were unsuccessful, though the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufai, indicated he would provide a response once inquiries were made. In a separate development, security forces in Zamfara and Kebbi states have engaged in a heavy firefight with over 100 suspected bandits near the state borders. The operation involves a combined effort by the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, and Police, with troops from the Chief of Army Staff Intervention Battalion 3 and the Mobile Police Force participating. The bandits were spotted emerging from the Sangeko Gap in Zamfara and heading toward Makuku in Kebbi. Intelligence and surveillance units detected their movements, prompting a coordinated response to halt their advance. Residents in the affected regions have been advised to stay alert and follow directives from security authorities. The engagement underscores the persistent threat posed by armed groups in the North-West region, where security agencies continue to conduct operations to disrupt criminal networks and rescue kidnapping victims. As of the time of reporting, no official casualty figures or outcomes of the operation had been released, with further updates expected from the military and law enforcement. Meanwhile, in Plateau State, troops of Operation Enduring Peace thwarted an ambush by suspected bandits in Langtang North Local Government Area. During the operation, soldiers recovered an AK-47 rifle and ammunition after intelligence from a captured suspect led them to Nwur village. The encounter resulted in the death of one bandit and the arrest of another. The Nigerian Army stated that the operation was part of broader efforts to combat criminal activity in the region. Recent incidents in Plateau State highlight the growing security concerns, with reports of attacks on joint security patrols and the abduction of civilians. Troops have intensified their presence in areas affected by these threats, conducting raids and investigations to identify and apprehend suspected bandits. The repeated attacks have prompted calls for enhanced intelligence gathering and stronger protection measures for vulnerable communities. Security agencies are under increasing pressure to address the escalating violence and ensure the safety of residents in rural areas.