Nigerian troops are now to collaborate with their counterparts in the Niger Republic, to carry out joint operations, to crush bandits and end their deadly criminal activities.
The new General Officer Commanding, GOC, 8 Division of the Nigerian Army Sokoto, Major-General Usman Yusuf made this known while on a visit to the Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari.
Major-General Usman Yusuf who recently assumed duty as the GOC to also head Operation Hadarin Daji, said the directives were issued by the Defence Headquarters.
The Governor during the meeting emphasised the need for close monitoring of suspected informants, operators of patent medicine stores and drug vendors.
He stated that questionable purchase of food and other consumables especially at the local markets by motorcyclists also needs to be monitored.
Masari also observed that the drug peddlers, and operators of patent medicine stores, as well as the informants and those that supply food and other essential commodities to the bandits, are responsible for the escalation and the persistence of banditry in the region.
While promising his government’s commitment towards restoring peace and stability in the State, he advised the military personnel to work hand in hand with traditional rulers and local vigilante groups to expose bandits and other criminals within the communities.
The new GOC said the visit was to officially inform the Governor of his assumption of duty.
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Major-General Yusuf who traced the history of banditry activities from Libya to the Niger Republic, down to northern Nigeria, assured of his readiness to get rid of them.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
