TDTroops under Operation WUTAN DAJI have successfully cleared several bandits’ camps, rescued kidnapped victims, and recovered a cache of arms during clearance operations in Bauchi State.
Security sources confirmed that troops of the 33 Artillery Brigade Garrison carried out the mission in Kumbodoro forest and Kumbodoro village.
They worked in conjunction with elements of the Brigade Headquarters and a team from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
The operation was led by Brigadier-General S.S. Shehu, Commander of the 33 Artillery Brigade.
The operation was part of ongoing efforts to rid the area of criminal elements.
Several bandits’ camps, including the notorious Azuge camps, were dismantled, with a number of criminals neutralised in the process.
Arms and Items Recovered
Troops recovered a significant cache of weapons and equipment abandoned by the bandits, including:
- Four skeletal rifles
- Four dane guns
- One FN rifle magazine
- One AK-47 magazine
- Seven AK-47 rifles and seven magazines
- One anti-aircraft rifle and one anti-aircraft launcher
- 32 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition
- Five walkie-talkie communication devices
- Camouflage hydration backpack
- Three helmets, two pairs of boots, a jackknife, six mobile phones, arrows, radio chargers, ATM cards, photographs, identity cards, and several pairs of security agency uniforms and leg chains
The recovery of such diverse items highlights the scale of the bandits’ operations and their attempts to mimic or infiltrate security agencies.
Rescue of Victims and Related Development
Eight kidnapped victims were freed during the clearance mission.
Troops are currently holding positions within Kumbodoro forest to consolidate gains and prevent the re-establishment of criminal camps.
In a separate operation, troops deployed at Duguri, working with local vigilantes, recovered 36 cows at Mushen Kura village.
The animals were found roaming the area and are suspected to have fled from bandits’ camps due to the ongoing clearance operations.
The cows are now in custody for further action.
Morale and Ongoing Efforts
Security sources noted that troops’ morale and combat efficiency remain high.
Operations continue across Bauchi State to deny bandits freedom of action and restore peace to affected communities.
The success of Operation WUTAN DAJI demonstrates the military’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks, rescuing victims, and recovering illegal arms.
It also underscores the importance of collaboration between the armed forces, national security agencies, and local vigilantes in tackling insecurity.
The clearance of bandits’ camps in Bauchi marks another milestone in Nigeria’s fight against armed groups.
With victims rescued, weapons seized, and camps destroyed, the military has dealt a significant blow to criminal elements in the region.
As troops consolidate their gains and maintain presence in Kumbodoro forest, residents of Bauchi and surrounding communities can look forward to improved security and stability.
