Governor Bello Mohammed Matawalle of Zamfara State has said that the persistent onslaught by the military personnel against bandits in the Dansadau area of Zamfara State will finally push the terrorists out of the state.
The governor who commended the military for their victory over bandits in Malele and Matunji communities of Dansadau Emirate in the Maru Local Government Area of the state further charged security operatives to not relent in engaging the bandits.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude during a statewide broadcast to the people of Zamfara on security, saying that he appreciated the military’s sustained efforts in protecting communities and crushing banditry and other crimes in all parts of Zamfara State.
He said for decades, bandits have been terrorizing every part of the state, pointing out that the people of Zamfara have been living in fear of the outlaws for decades.
The Governor urged the military personnel and other security operatives to redouble their efforts towards restoring lasting peace in the State, assuring that they have the full support of the state government.
“No meaningful development can take place in any society in the absence of peace and stability, so we need to be mindful of peace in our state,” the governor added.
Speaking further, he said: “The terrorists have been invading our communities, causing untold suffering and hardship to innocent citizens. These criminal elements have shown no regard for the lives and well-being of our citizens and have terrorized our state with their ruthless acts of violence in various forms.”
Governor Matawalle assured that the ongoing crackdown on notorious bandits who have been terrorizing locals around Dansadau emirate, particularly at Malele in Mutunji district and nearby communities must be brought to justice.
According to him, on the 18th of December 2022, the security forces carried out a well-coordinated aerial and ground onslaught on the enclaves of the recalcitrant bandits who were planning to invade Muntunji, Malele, and other surrounding villages.
“The successful preemptive offensive by the gallant military forces has yielded significant results worthy of commendation.
“Several bandits have been neutralised, their settlements destroyed, and a large cache of their weaponry recovered. It was a complex and daring operation by our brave security forces which has immensely contributed to making the communities around the Dansadau axis safer,” he stated.
The success of the operation, he observed, “is a testament to the bravery and dedication of our armed forces.”
He thanked the efforts of the security forces, particularly the Nigerian Army and Air Force.
“We are witnessing a significant turning point in the fight against these bandits. 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.