The security architecture, “Operation Sharan Daji” adopted by the Nigerian military to combat the bandits in Zamfara State and the neighbouring states has begun to yield positive results. The troops at the weekend rescued 40 victims kidnapped by bandits, comprising of men, women, and children from local communities in Zamfara State.
The troops in the security operations, recovered four Ak47 rifles, two locally made pump action rifles, 17 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and 20 cartridges. The troops said that 10 motorcycles, 94 rustled animals, assorted charms and two handsets were also recovered during the operations.
They added that a total of eight suspected bandits informants, rustlers, kidnappers and logistics suppliers were arrested, including one Muhammed Iso, a notorious kidnapper who was intercepted in the Niger Republic through collaboration with security forces in that country.
The arrested bandit was identified to come from Naagwalam in Katsina State; he was said to have confessed to be a member of a five-man syndicate responsible for kidnappings and highway robbery in Batsari and Jibiya.
The Commander, Major General Hakeem Otiki, said that the suspects arrested have been handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
He stated that officers of the operation remain resolute in the
performance of the mandate of tackling the menace of armed banditry and other forms of criminal activities in Zamfara State.