Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has announced that thousands of bandits were neutralised during a major security offensive targeting criminal hideouts in parts of the state, particularly in Alkaleri Local Government Area and surrounding communities. The operation, which lasted approximately two weeks, involved coordinated efforts by the military, air force, police, and intelligence agencies. Governor Mohammed attributed the success to the swift intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following the state government’s urgent appeal over escalating insecurity.
The governor revealed that security forces discovered large bandit settlements in forested areas such as Dajin Madam and nearby territories, which were believed to house between 10,000 and 20,000 fighters. These enclaves, used as strategic strongholds, have now been destroyed, along with key supply lines and logistics networks that sustained the criminal elements. The operation employed intelligence-driven tactics, aerial surveillance, and synchronized ground assaults to dismantle the bandits’ infrastructure.
According to Mohammed, the joint security forces bombarded multiple camps, destroyed hundreds of motorcycles used by the bandits, and forced many of the fleeing criminals out of the forests. He commended the Office of the National Security Adviser, security chiefs, and other stakeholders for their support, which he said contributed to the significant improvement in the state’s security situation. The governor emphasized that sustained aerial surveillance and rapid response teams have been deployed to prevent the bandits from regrouping.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities. Mohammed warned that anyone found aiding bandits with logistics or intelligence would face legal consequences. He also stressed the importance of community profiling and biometric registration of residents to close security gaps and prevent criminal elements from exploiting ungoverned spaces.
The governor’s statement comes amid growing concerns over banditry and rural insecurity in northern Nigeria. The successful operation in Bauchi is seen as a critical step toward restoring peace and normalcy in affected communities. As security forces continue to monitor the region, authorities are working to ensure that the gains made are consolidated and that long-term solutions are put in place to address the root causes of insecurity. The state government remains committed to protecting lives and property, and the public is encouraged to support these efforts through active participation and cooperation.
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