Security Forces Neutralize Scores of Bandits in Zamfara State

In a significant operation, scores of bandits have been neutralized by the military and other security forces in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The operation, which involved a gun duel along the Gusau-Sokoto road, resulted in the death of over 100 bandits, with several others injured.

According to eyewitnesses, the bandits, led by notorious leader Halilu Buzu, were moving along the road after an alleged meeting with their kingpin, Bello Turji. However, they were met with heavy resistance from the security forces, leading to a prolonged gun battle that lasted for several hours.

The gun duel started in the evening of Thursday and left hundreds of motorists stranded on the road. An army aircraft was deployed to the scene, killing several bandits and recovering over 50 motorcycles belonging to the bandits.

A villager, Babangida Usman, who witnessed the incident, described the scene as chaotic, with gunshots coming from multiple directions and bandits trying to escape. "We were told by the security operatives that everybody should remain in their vehicle and not move out to avoid losing their lives," Usman said.

General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, visited the Zamfara Government House to brief Governor Dauda Lawal on the operation. He assured the governor and the people of the state that the security situation would be adequately addressed, and farming activities would return to normal.

General Musa also announced the demise of Halilu Sububu, a notorious bandits leader, who was among those neutralized during the operation. He emphasized that the security forces would continue to put pressure on the insurgents until they are completely wiped out of the country.

The operation is seen as a significant victory in the fight against banditry in Zamfara State, and it is hoped that it will bring relief to the people of the state who have been living in fear of these armed groups.