Insecurity: Matawalle Orders Defence Staff, Military Commanders to Flush Out Banditry, Kidnapping In North West
From Abdul SULE (Abuja)
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has directed the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and other military chiefs to move to Sokoto which is the headquarters of the General Officer Commanding, GOC, to flush out banditry, kidnapping and terrorism in North West.
Expressing sadness over the activities of terrorists and bandits terrorising Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi States and its environs, the Minister of State said while in the North West they will supervise operations and ensure that Bello Turji and his bandits gang are flushed out immediately.
In a statement issued on Saturday by Henshaw Ogubike mnipr, Director Information and Public Relations, stated that this strategic move underscores the unwavering commitment of government to restoring peace and security in the region.
"These criminals have been circulating videos of a Nigerian military Armoured vehicle that was stuck in a water logged area and late in the night the officers were asked to withdraw to avoid being ambushed by bandits, later in the night the bandits went to the water logged area, recording video of the Armoured vehicle that was stuck and celebrating it.
"This incident happened in Kwashabawa , Zurmi Local government area of Zamfara state and it is not acceptable as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been giving great support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
"The federal government is deeply concerned about the persistent threat posed by banditry and terrorism in the North West particularly.
"We are ready to deploy all necessary assets to ensure that these criminal elements are flushed out and peace is restored to our communities, Dr Matawalle stated.
"We must move against these terrorists to enable our people to move freely. The time is up for these bandits and terrorists as increased and consistent operations will weaken all their bases."
Matawalle further assured the people of sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara , Kebbi states and the entire North West region that the security forces will not leave any stone unturned until they flush out the bandits, calling on the people to remain vigilant and cooperate with the security forces.
