Troops of the 8 Division Garrison of the Nigerian Army, Sokoto, have neutralised five armed bandits and recovered weapons and motorcycles during coordinated military operations across parts of Sokoto and Zamfara States.

A military source told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Sokoto that the carefully planned operation commenced on Wednesday as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle bandit networks in the region.

According to the source, the offensive dealt a major blow to criminal elements, targeting notorious bandit hideouts across several communities in both states.

“The coordinated assaults focused on known bandit enclaves in Gangara, Makawana, Satiru, Baici, and Kurkusu villages within Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State,” the source said.

“The swift military advance disrupted criminal operations, forcing many of the bandits to flee as troops successfully asserted control over the affected areas.”

The source added that the operation later intensified in Batamna village, Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where troops encountered stiff resistance from the criminals.

“In a fierce exchange of gunfire, five bandits were neutralised, while weapons, motorcycles, and Baofeng communication radios used for criminal activities were recovered,” the source disclosed.

The military successes follow earlier operations in December during which troops of the 8 Division neutralised notorious bandit leaders, Kachalla Kallamu and Kachalla Na’Allah, in Sabon Birnin and Isa Local Government Areas of Sokoto State.

Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to Governor Ahmad Aliyu on Security Matters, retired Colonel Ahmad Usman, alongside other residents, has commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for the sustained efforts and significant progress made in combating banditry in the state.