In a dramatic turn of events, terrorists believed to be notorious bandits operating in Bukuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State have reportedly fled to Bani town in Kwara State following an intense military onslaught and relentless vigilante offensives.
Renowned security analyst Zagazola Makama, citing intelligence sources on his X handle on Sunday, disclosed that the sustained military crackdown has severely weakened the operational capabilities of the criminal gang, compelling them to abandon their stronghold.
According to Zagazola, this critical intelligence emerged during the interrogation of a captured insurgent. The suspect, apprehended by local vigilantes in Kyaram community, allegedly provided insider details on the movements of the fleeing terrorists, who have been responsible for countless atrocities in Zamfara.
Despite their retreat, the insurgent cautioned that the bandits remain well-armed and pose a serious security risk in their new location.
> “Many of their fighters have been neutralized or forced to flee due to relentless pressure from security forces and vigilantes. However, their key leaders and remaining members have relocated to Bani town in Kwara State, leaving behind a shattered network in Bukuyum,” the captured terrorist allegedly confessed.
Reacting swiftly, the Kwara State Police Command has categorically dismissed the reports, describing them as false and designed to incite unnecessary fear among residents.
In an official statement on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, refuted the claims, insisting that there is no intelligence to support the presence of fleeing bandits in Bani.
> “The attention of the Kwara State Police Command has been drawn to reports alleging that armed bandits escaping military bombardments in Zamfara have relocated to Bani town in Kwara. The Command wishes to categorically debunk this claim as false and misleading, an attempt by mischief makers to cause unnecessary panic.”
The police assured residents that security measures have been heightened across the state to prevent any security breach.
> “The Kwara Police Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, remains on high alert and has intensified surveillance across all vulnerable areas. Residents should go about their lawful activities without fear, as Kwara remains safe.”
The Commissioner of Police, CP Victor Olaiya, psc(+), reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property while urging the public to refrain from spreading unverified reports.
“For credible security information, residents should reach out to the Kwara State Police Command through its official channels. In case of emergencies, contact the control room via: 07032069501 or 08125275046.”
As security forces continue their operations against insurgents in Zamfara, concerns persist over the potential displacement of criminal elements into other states. Whether the alleged relocation to Kwara is real or a case of misinformation remains to be seen. However, authorities are leaving nothing to chance in ensuring public safety.
PIONEER NEWS 