From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau
The Zamfara State Police Command has announced a major operational success in its ongoing efforts to rid the state of banditry and other violent crimes.
In a statement signed by the Zamfara Police Command Spokesperson, DSP Yazid Abubakar, said following the recent deployment of Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and CSK operational vehicles provided by the Zamfara State Government, the Command intensified offensive operations targeting forests and remote locations used as hideouts by bandits.
The statement said, a joint security team comprising operatives of the Violence Crime Response Unit (VCRU), Zamfara State Police Command, and Civil Security Volunteers, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Muhammad Bello, conducted a coordinated anti-banditry operation in Taza, Wuya, and Gwaram villages within the Jangebe Forest axis of Anka Local Government Area.
“Upon arrival at the targeted locations, the team encountered heavily armed bandits who engaged the operatives with sophisticated weapons. A fierce gun battle ensued, during which the security team successfully overpowered the criminals.
“At the end of the operation, three bandits were neutralised, while several others escaped into the forest with suspected gunshot injuries. One suspect was arrested. Recovered exhibits include three AK-47 rifles, twenty-three rounds of live ammunition, three magazines, and ten motorcycles.
“No casualties were recorded among the police operatives or supporting security personnel. The operation is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first security incursion and direct engagement against bandits within this axis of the Jangebe Forest, an area previously regarded as a stronghold of criminal elements.
“The Zamfara State Police Command remains resolute in its commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against banditry and other forms of criminality with a view to restoring lasting peace and security across the state”, the statement has added.
