The General Officer Commanding, GOC, 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj-Gen Hakeem Otiki, has reiterated Army commitment to stamp out armed banditry, kidnapping and cattle rustling in the North West region.
Mr Otiki gave the assurance at a news conference on the activities of Operation Harbin Kunama III on Wednesday in Sokoto.
He said that the briefing was in line with the Army resolution to always keep the public abreast with the activities of the headquarters.
“It is necessary to note that with the launching of Operation Harbin Kunama III, additional troops were injected to dominate the North West theatre of operations, especially the hinterland where the bandits roam freely.
“However, with the renewed efforts by the Army headquarters, increased collaboration with other security agencies, including the Nigerien Armed forces, especially in the areas of joint border patrol.
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“The dynamics of the operation has assumed a new dimension thereby yielding more positive results culminating into several encounters and defeat of bandits groups,”he said.
Otiki also said that the operation was able to achieve a lot in the areas of neutralising several bandits, captured some bandits and arrested informants.
“We have also succeeded in capturing a lot of weapons, apprehend logistics suppliers, destruction of bandits camps, among others.
“Moreover, the operation has returned confidence in the locals to remain in their villages and facilitate the return of refugees and IDPs to their homes.
The GOC further appreciated the Chief of Army staff, Lt-Gen Tukur Buratai for his guidance and provision of battle requirements.
He commended the unwavering and doggedness of various security agencies operating side by side with the Nigerian Army and vigilante groups and local hunters for their support to the troops.
He urged all law-abiding citizens to continue to volunteer timely information to security agencies for prompt action.
NAN
