Katsina Governor Dikko Radda Applauds Joint Military Raid On Bandit Camps
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has commended the joint air and ground forces for their decisive raid on bandits’ camps at Bichi Hill. The operation, carried out by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and troops of the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, successfully neutralized notorious bandit kingpins, including Manore and Lalbi, along with their cohorts.
The raid, which took place on December 19, 2024, followed credible intelligence reports revealing the establishment of criminal hideouts in Bichi Hill. These camps had been linked to an escalation in banditry, including abductions, cattle rustling, and violent attacks in Danmusa, Safana, and Kankara Local Government Areas.
A statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Muazu, detailed the strategic planning and execution of the operation. According to Muazu, “The mission was based on intelligence reports and extensive Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, which confirmed the bandits’ hideouts. These criminals had been terrorizing communities such as Maidabino, Yantumaki, and Danmusa, among others.”
The operation began with precision airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), which targeted the camps, neutralizing scores of bandits and destroying their operational facilities. Surviving bandits who attempted to regroup were met with a fierce ground offensive by advancing troops, leading to prolonged firefights. The air component further launched follow-up strikes on bandits attempting to flee on motorcycles, destroying additional clusters of criminals.
The statement noted, “The joint air and ground operation resulted in the neutralization of scores of bandits, the destruction of their camps, and the weakening of their operational capacity. This is a significant blow to banditry in the region.”
Governor Radda praised the security forces for their courage and effectiveness in the fight against banditry, expressing the gratitude of the Katsina State Government and its citizens. “The Government of Katsina State, on behalf of its peace-loving citizens, commends the joint efforts of the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 2 and 17 Brigade. Their dedication to restoring peace and stability in our state and the entire North West region is deeply appreciated,” the governor stated.
He added that the success of this operation would serve as a deterrent to future criminal activities and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in their efforts to secure the state.
“This latest operation has significantly weakened the operational capacity of the bandits and serves as a warning against any future attempts to establish criminal enclaves in Katsina State,” Governor Radda emphasized.
