Troops overrun bandit camps, capture 19 family members

Troops of the Nigerian Army have overrun multiple bandit camps in the Dajin Madam Forest in Bauchi State, neutralising an unspecified number of fighters, capturing family members of suspected bandits, and destroying logistics used to sustain criminal operations in the area.

The operation was carried out by troops of 33 Artillery Brigade in conjunction with a team from the Office of the National Security Adviser.

It resulted in the clearing of several camps, including the notorious Azuge and Hari camps, in what the army described as a significant blow to bandit networks operating in the forest.

During the operation, several bandits were neutralised while others fled under sustained military pressure. Nineteen individuals — six women and 13 children — identified as family members of the fleeing bandits were taken into custody.

Items recovered included one AK-47 magazine, packs of tramadol drugs, a pair of police uniform, several military uniforms, and two horses. The army said the items were indicative of the group’s criminal activities and attempts at impersonation.

A number of motorcycles used by the bandits for mobility were also destroyed, further limiting their operational capability.

Troops are currently maintaining a hold position within the Dajin Madam Forest to consolidate the gains and prevent re-infiltration by fleeing elements.

In a related development, troops conducted a follow-up clearance operation to Mainamaji following recent airstrikes on bandit hideouts.

The patrol recorded no contact, which the army said indicated that sustained military pressure had significantly degraded bandit presence and movement in the area.

The Nigerian Army said it remained committed to sustaining operations until lasting peace and security were restored, and urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.