BREAKING: Scores of Suspected Bandits Killed in Military Operation in Sokoto

By Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto

Scores of suspected bandits have reportedly been killed in an ongoing military clearance operation in Maikujera town, Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

Local sources told our correspondent that troops were gaining ground during the operation, deploying Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and other resources against the armed group.

According to the sources, the suspected bandits allegedly used rustled cattle as shields during the confrontation, resulting in the death of several animals, while others reportedly scattered into nearby forests.

The armed group, believed to have links with notorious bandit leader Bello Turji, was reportedly moving stolen cattle from Gandi town and neighbouring communities in Rabah LGA through the Gundumi forest towards suspected hideouts in Sabon Birni and Isa LGAs when troops launched the operation.

Sources said several of the suspected bandits who survived the military assault fled towards nearby hills, farms and forests, with some allegedly abandoning their rifles as troops intensified pursuit.

“The military personnel, who had fully mobilised their personnel and resources for the operation, are pursuing the bandits,” a resident of Maikujera told our correspondent by telephone.

“Some of the bandits even abandoned their rifles and fled into nearby farms, taking advantage of the thick vegetation to hide,” the source added.

Confirming the military operation, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Army’s 8 Division, Lt.-Col. Olaniyi Osoba, described it as “hugely successful,” adding that full details would be released in due course.

Residents of Maikujera and surrounding communities expressed relief over the military action and called for sustained security operations to prevent the armed groups from regrouping.

Mop-up operations were reportedly continuing in forests and border areas linking Rabah, Sabon Birni and Isa LGAs.