The Nigerian Army has recorded fresh gains in its ongoing operations against banditry in parts of Bauchi State, overrunning key camps, capturing suspected accomplices, and destroying logistics used by criminal groups.
Accprding to a statement shared on the Nigerian Army’s Facebook page on Wednesday, troops of the 33 Artillery Brigade, working alongside a team from the Office of the National Security Adviser, carried out a major clearance operation in the Dajin Madam Forest, a known stronghold for bandit elements.
The military disclosed that the operation led to the dismantling of several camps, including the notorious Azuge and Hari enclaves, significantly disrupting the activities of armed groups in the area.
It was gathered that troops reportedly neutralised an unspecified number of bandits, while others fled under sustained military pressure.
In the course of the operation, security forces took into custody 19 individuals identified as family members of the fleeing bandits, including six women and 13 children.
Several motorcycles—commonly used by the groups for mobility were destroyed to limit their operational reach.
Recovered items from the camps include an AK-47 magazine, quantities of tramadol, a police uniform, multiple military uniforms, and two horses.
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Officials say the discoveries highlight the group’s reliance on drug use and impersonation tactics to carry out criminal activities.
Troops have since established a firm presence within the forest to consolidate gains and prevent the return of displaced fighters.
In a related development, the Army confirmed a follow-up clearance operation in the Mainamaji area after recent airstrikes on suspected bandit hideouts.
The operation recorded no direct engagement, a development officials say indicates that sustained military pressure is weakening the presence and mobility of criminal elements in the region.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to maintaining offensive operations until stability is restored, urging residents to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to support security efforts.