Governor Matawalle calls on the military to step up efforts to combat bandits in Zamfara

The ongoing military assault against bandits in the Dansadau region of Zamfara State, according to the state’s governor, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, would eventually drive the terrorists out of the region.

The state’s governor praised the military for defeating robbers in the Malele and Matunji communities of the Dansadau Emirate in the Maru Local Government Area and urged security personnel to continue the fight against the criminals.

During a nationwide broadcast on security, he conveyed his sincere gratitude to the military for its ongoing efforts to safeguard communities and put an end to banditry and other crimes throughout Zamfara State.

He noted that the people of Zamfara have been living in fear of the outlaws for decades and said that bandits have been terrorizing the entire state for decades.

Assuring them of the full support of the state government, the Governor asked the military personnel and other security professionals to step up their efforts to restore long-lasting peace in the State.

The governor continued, “We need to be cognizant of peace in our state. No significant progress can take place in any society without peace and stability.

He said, “The terrorists have been attacking our towns, forcing countless innocent civilians to suffer and endure misery. These criminal elements have frightened our state with their cruel acts of violence in many different forms with no regard for the lives and welfare of our inhabitants.

In particular, at Malele in the Mutunji area and surrounding settlements, notorious bandits have been terrorizing villagers around Dansadau emirate and must be brought to justice, according to Governor Matawalle.

He claimed that on December 18, 2022, the security forces launched a well-coordinated aerial and ground assault against the strongholds of the rebel bandits who were preparing to seize control of Muntunji, Malele, and other nearby villages.

“The valiant military forces’ successful preemptive offensive produced noteworthy outcomes deserving of praise.

Bandit camps have been demolished, a number of them have been neutralized, and a sizable quantity of their weapons have been recovered. Our courageous security officers carried out a difficult and risky operation that significantly increased the safety of the residents around the Dansadau axis, he said.

The operation’s success, he said, “is a testament to the bravery and dedication of our armed personnel.”

He expressed gratitude for the security forces’ efforts, especially those of the Nigerian Army and Air Force.

“The battle against these bandits is at a crucial turning point, which we are currently experiencing. In recent operations, our armed forces have successfully neutralized scores of bandits, bringing an end to their reign of terror and bringing much-needed relief to our people.

“This is a momentous occasion, and I want to take this opportunity to thank the brave men and women of the Nigerian army and Air force who have risked their lives to protect our communities. Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and I am deeply grateful for their service to our dear State,” Matawalle stated.

The governor further stated that he was aware that in the course of the onslaught against these barbarous elements, scores of lives have been lost from the sides of the friendly communities and the security forces”

The governor used the opportunity to condole with the military authorities, families, and colleagues of the fallen heroes over the loss and equally commiserate with the families of those who lost their lives in the course of the operations in our various communities.

Government, he assured, will support the injured and the families of those who lost their lives from the side of the affected communities and the security forces.

He said further: “While we celebrate the recent successes, we must also recognize that there is still much work to be done. The fight against banditry is ongoing, and we must remain vigilant in our efforts to bring these criminals to justice and ensure the safety and security of our communities”

He reassured the people that his administration will remain committed to working closely with the Nigerian Army, Airforce, and other security forces to continue the fight against banditry and will continue to do everything to provide the necessary resources and support to o armed forces so that they can continue to keep our communities safe and secure.

“I also want to take this opportunity to urge our people to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Your cooperation is essential in the fight against banditry, and together we can work to create a safer and more secure Zamfara State for all,” he emphasised.