The Nigerian Air Force has declared a successful operation against criminal gangs in Zamfara, significantly reducing the number of armed bandits historically engaged in kidnappings and violence in the region.
Nigerian Military Claims Major Success Against Bandits in Zamfara Raids
Nigerian Military Claims Major Success Against Bandits in Zamfara Raids
Nigerian Air Force reports significant casualties among criminal gangs amid ongoing violence
In recent military operations, the Nigerian Air Force has reported killing numerous bandits, described as local criminal gangs, in Zamfara state. On Monday, a statement from the military confirmed that airstrikes and ground raids were conducted in the Makakkari forest, a known stronghold for these gangs. The strikes were initiated after surveillance uncovered over 400 bandits located and preparing to launch an assault on a nearby village.
In the past two weeks, armed gangs have escalated their violent activities, targeting local settlements, leading to numerous fatalities and kidnappings. Reports indicate that at least 13 security personnel have also lost their lives due to these attacks. Air force spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame highlighted the success of the operation, noting the eradication of several notorious bandit leaders and many of their followers.
The military's raids come as the kidnapping-for-ransom business has burgeoned in parts of Nigeria, with motivations primarily financial. Some gangs have also formed alliances with jihadist groups engaged in a prolonged insurgency in the northeastern region of the country.
Military operations have been an ongoing strategy against banditry, having previously reported similar successes, such as the killing of 95 gang members during a recent campaign. However, violence and insecurity persist as banditry continues to be a critical issue in Nigeria, prompting concerns from both security forces and community members alike.
Reports from various corners have raised alarms about the humanitarian implications of ongoing violence, as aid organizations warn that reduced support could lead more individuals into the arms of extremist groups.
This situation reflects the broader struggle Nigeria faces in tackling armed gangs' growing influence and the interconnectedness of criminal activities with established insurgent movements across the nation, marking an ongoing crisis that continues to evolve.
In the past two weeks, armed gangs have escalated their violent activities, targeting local settlements, leading to numerous fatalities and kidnappings. Reports indicate that at least 13 security personnel have also lost their lives due to these attacks. Air force spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame highlighted the success of the operation, noting the eradication of several notorious bandit leaders and many of their followers.
The military's raids come as the kidnapping-for-ransom business has burgeoned in parts of Nigeria, with motivations primarily financial. Some gangs have also formed alliances with jihadist groups engaged in a prolonged insurgency in the northeastern region of the country.
Military operations have been an ongoing strategy against banditry, having previously reported similar successes, such as the killing of 95 gang members during a recent campaign. However, violence and insecurity persist as banditry continues to be a critical issue in Nigeria, prompting concerns from both security forces and community members alike.
Reports from various corners have raised alarms about the humanitarian implications of ongoing violence, as aid organizations warn that reduced support could lead more individuals into the arms of extremist groups.
This situation reflects the broader struggle Nigeria faces in tackling armed gangs' growing influence and the interconnectedness of criminal activities with established insurgent movements across the nation, marking an ongoing crisis that continues to evolve.
