BREAKING: Bandits attempted to abduct Alhaji Sabo Gwarmai, the former APC Chairman of Bebeji Local Government, after reportedly storming his residence with heavy weapons.
According to local reports, the attackers managed to take him out of his home, but residents quickly mobilized and confronted the attackers in a fierce clash. The community reportedly succeeded in rescuing Gwarmai before the kidnappers could escape with him.
Gwarmai is said to have survived the attack unharmed.
How long can communities continue to rely on self-defense before stronger security interventions become unavoidable?
GOOD NEWS: Last night, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA scored another major success in Zamfara State after overrunning a terrorist hideout at Tungan Kudaduku in Anka LGA and rescuing five kidnapped victims.
The operation was launched after intelligence revealed that bandits, travelling on 10 motorcycles, were heading toward the area. Troops moved in quickly, engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle and forced them to flee, abandoning their makeshift camp.
During a follow-up sweep of the camp, soldiers safely rescued the five abducted victims. Troops remain in the area, maintaining pressure on the fleeing terrorists and preventing them from regrouping.
Another encouraging reminder that sustained intelligence-led operations are yielding results. Kudos to the troops for their courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment to protecting lives and defending our communities.
Troops Launch Manhunt After Gunmen Kill Community Sentry in Plateau
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have launched a manhunt for suspected gunmen following the killing of a community sentry in Gwom Village, Rim District, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on July 14 when troops of Sector 6 of Operation SAFE HAVEN responded to reports of an attack on the village.
According to the sources, on arrival at the scene, the troops found the lifeless body of the victim, identified as Markus Musa, who was reportedly on sentry duty when he was attacked and killed by the assailants.
A search of the scene led to the recovery of two empty cases of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and two disintegrated metallic ammunition links, indicating that high-calibre weapons were used during the attack.
The sources said members of the community evacuated the deceased’s body for burial in accordance with local customs.
Troops have since commenced efforts to track down and apprehend the perpetrators, while security patrols have been intensified in the area to prevent further attacks and reassure residents.
GOOD NEWS: Last night, bandits were forced to flee empty-handed after troops of FOB Bakori and operatives of the Nigeria Police intercepted them during a fighting patrol in Unguwar Dutse community, Yan-Kwani Ward of Bakori LGA, Katsina State.
A firefight broke out when the security team made contact with the armed group. Faced with superior firepower, the bandits retreated into the bush abandoning 4 cows and 52 sheep believed to have been rustled.
The recovered livestock has been handed over to local authorities and will be returned to their rightful owners.
Another timely intervention that prevented bandits from making away with stolen livestock. Kudos to the troops and police for their swift response and continued pressure on bandit groups in the area.
UPDATE: Yesterday, I wrote about the reported death of a young boy who was allegedly fighting alongside bandits in Bukkuyum. Today, another side of the same story has emerged.
This is Garba Jaji, a respected community elder who was shot while helping defend his community during the attack. He survived the exchange of fire and is now receiving treatment at UDUTH in Sokoto.
It's heartbreaking to see two generations caught up in the same violence, an elderly man risking his life to protect his community and a young boy reportedly losing his life after being drawn into an armed group.
Different lives. Different choices. The same conflict. May Garba Jaji recover fully and may this cycle of violence finally come to an end
GOOD NEWS: Yesterday evening, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA rescued eight kidnapped victims after foiling a terrorist attack in Ungwan Rogo, Kaura Namoda LGA of Zamfara State.
Acting on credible intelligence, the troops swiftly engaged the terrorists, forcing them to flee and abandon their captives. Two vehicles were also recovered and operations are ongoing to keep the area secure.
A big salute to our gallant troops for their bravery, professionalism and unwavering commitment to protecting innocent lives.
Troops Intercept Pregnant Woman Allegedly Conveying Logistics to Boko Haram/ISWAP in Borno
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have intercepted a pregnant woman allegedly conveying logistics suspected to be meant for Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Borno State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the suspect, identified as Mrs. Falmata Adamu, 28, was apprehended at about 11:00 a.m. on July 13 by troops of the 162 Amphibious Battalion while conducting checkpoint duties along the Mandaragirau–Biu Road.
According to the sources, the woman was intercepted after troops discovered items concealed in her civilian clothing during a search. The recovered items included 17 torch lights and 19 Tiger batteries, which are suspected to have been destined for a terrorist enclave.
The suspect was taken into custody, while preliminary investigations are ongoing to determine the intended recipients of the items and possible links to terrorist logistics networks.
Military sources said the interception forms part of ongoing efforts by Operation HADIN KAI to disrupt the supply chains sustaining Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists operating in the North-East.
The sources added that the general security situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, with troops maintaining a high level of operational readiness.
Troops Arrest Suspected ‘Suck and Die’ Dealer During Raid in Adamawa
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a suspected dealer of methylene chloride, popularly known as “Suck and Die,” during a raid operation in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation was carried out at about 12:30 p.m. on July 13 by troops of the 232 Battalion (Tactical) across Hong metropolis to dominate the area and deny criminal elements freedom of action.
During the operation, troops arrested the suspect, identified as Sani Adamu, 30, at the Hong Market. A four-litre empty gallon used for methylene chloride was recovered from him.
The suspect was subsequently handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Hong Command, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Reports from Blueprint Radio indicate that bandits have imposed a ₦10 million levy on eight communities in Birnin Gwari LGA of Kaduna State.
A resident of Kuyello, who asked not to be named, said the bandits attacked the community just two days ago. Efforts by Blueprint Radio to get a response from the authorities were unsuccessful.
If communities are being forced to pay millions just to survive, what does that say about the state of security in the region?
NB: Below is the phone call between the resident and Blueprint Radio reporter
"How can Kwankwaso convince Northerners to vote for Peter Obi?
During the 2023 election, Obi focused much of his campaign on churches, urging supporters to 'take back their country.' When he campaigned in Kano, he mainly visited Sabon Gari.
So, which Northerner would be persuaded to vote for Obi? None.
Kwankwaso and Peter Obi will not make any significant impact in the 2027 election."
— @adeyanjudeji , activist
Bandits 🆘.... a 100 bikes bandits horde is coming out of ibbi forest in mashegu lga of Niger state and is heading towards Zamfara state....... This are most likely dogo gyde assult group retreating from Mashegu after destroying lakurawa terrorist in the area....
GOOD NEWS: A logistics supplier to bandits has been arrested in Kano after credible intelligence led police to intercept him in Bichi.
According to the Kano State Police Command, officers recovered 109 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, military uniforms, caps, a fake military ID card, and other items meant for bandits. This operation have disrupted a dangerous supply chain and prevented future attacks especially in that axis that comprise Kano & Katsina communities.
Kudos to the Kano State Police Command, the officers involved and the residents who provided timely intelligence. This is another reminder that effective policing and community cooperation remain key to tackling insecurity.
BREAKING: A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Muhammad Sani to 20 years in prison for helping conceal information about notorious bandit leader Kachalla Dan Karami, a move that reportedly enabled him to escape from security operatives.
This case is a reminder that bandits & armed groups often rely on more than just weapons, they also depend on people willing to protect them from within. The bigger question is; how many more collaborators are still operating unnoticed?
NB: Muhammad Sani photo
Another heartbreaking reminder of the worsening insecurity facing ordinary Nigerians, especially in the North. A disturbing video shows bandits after abducting travelers on a highway, recording their captives as they question each person about where they are from.
For millions, fear has become part of everyday life on the roads, at home, on farms and even at work. No one should have to live with the constant fear of being kidnapped simply for traveling.
May Allah protect the innocent, comfort the affected families and restore peace and security across Nigeria.
How many more innocent lives must be shattered before those responsible for protecting Nigerians take decisive action?
One of the painful realities of the banditry in Nigeria is that many of those recruited into bandit groups are young boys who blend into everyday life. You can see them in town, interacting with their communities and never suspect they are involved in armed violence.
The below boy pictured was reportedly killed in Bukkuyum last night, as a bandit.
How many more children are being pulled into these armed groups, and what will it take to break the cycle of recruitment?
Troops Arrest Four Suspects During Manhunt for Attackers of Kumm Community in Plateau
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 6, Operation Enduring Peace, have arrested four suspects during a cordon-and-search operation launched in connection with the recent attack on Kumm Village in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation was conducted at about 11:30 a.m. on July 12 following a sustained manhunt for the perpetrators of the July 11 attack on the community.
During the operation, troops raided Luggere Fulani hamlets in neighbouring Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, where four suspects were apprehended.
The suspects were identified as Abbas Musa, 27; Haruna Jibrin, 56; Hassan Ibrahim, 22; and Isah Aliyu, 50.
The suspects are currently undergoing preliminary investigation to determine their alleged involvement in the attack on Kumm Village and any links to other criminal activities in the area.
Security sources said troops have continued offensive and intelligence-driven operations across the Riyom–Barkin Ladi axis to apprehend other fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks.
GOOD NEWS: Yesterday afternoon, our troops responded swiftly to credible intelligence on terrorist activity in Mokurata, Danko/Wasagu LGA of Kebbi State. Faced with the troops firepower, the terrorists reportedly fled the area. According to military sources, two terrorists were neutralized, while a motorcycle and a Baofeng handheld radio were recovered.
Kudos to the troops for their courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment. Every successful operation like this helps deny terrorists the freedom to operate and brings us a step closer to safer communities.
Troops Investigate as Plateau Locals Poisoned Cows in Plateau Community
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 3, Operation Enduring Peace , have commenced an investigation into the suspected poisoning of cattle in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the troops responded at about 8:30 a.m. on July 12 to a report that cows belonging to one Yusuf Yau had allegedly been poisoned by locals at Kpachudu Jebbu Miango.
On arrival at the scene, the troops confirmed that one cow had died. Preliminary findings indicated that the animal was suspected to have grazed on a poisonous substance.
The sources said an investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the cow��s death and establish whether foul play was involved.
Security authorities urged residents to remain calm and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions while the investigation is ongoing.
This afternoon, security forces came under attack while protecting farmers in Tudun Bichi community, Danko-Wasagu LGA of Kebbi State. The ensuing gun battle with bandits reportedly left several attackers dead, while security personnel also suffered casualties.
The attack follows repeated threats issued by notorious bandit leader Kachalla Ilu, who has vowed to stop farming activities in the axis unless communities agree to negotiate with him. Residents say the continued attacks are aimed at preventing farmers from accessing their fields during the cultivation season.
People in the community praised the courage of the security personnel defending them but also voiced concerns about the limited equipment available to troops, calling on the authorities to provide stronger operational support.
Can improved intelligence, mobility and force protection help security agencies stay ahead of bandit attacks on farming communities in Kebbi State?