Troops Overrun Bandit Camps in Bauchi Forest, Captures Families

Troops Overrun Bandit Camps in Bauchi Forest, Captures Families

The Nigerian Army says it has stepped up its clearance operations against bandits in Bauchi State, overrunning several camps in the Dajin Madam Forest and capturing families linked to fleeing criminals.

Troops of the 33 Artillery Brigade, working alongside the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) team, carried out the operation which led to the destruction of identified hideouts, including the Azuge and Hari camps.

Military sources said the operation was part of sustained efforts to flush out armed groups operating in forested areas of the state.

During the raid, troops reportedly killed several bandits while others escaped under heavy fire. Six women and 13 children, described as family members of the fleeing suspects, were taken into custody.

The army also destroyed several motorcycles believed to have been used for mobility and logistics by the armed groups.

A cache of items recovered from the camps included an AK-47 magazine, packs of tramadol, a police uniform, military-style clothing, and two horses. Security officials said the items pointed to attempts by the criminals to disguise themselves and sustain their operations.

Troops have since maintained a presence in the forest to prevent regrouping or re-entry by fleeing bandits.

In a related operation, soldiers conducted a follow-up clearance exercise around Mainamaji following recent air strikes on suspected hideouts. The army said no contact was made during that operation, suggesting that pressure from ongoing offensives had weakened the presence of armed groups in the area.

A senior military source said the sustained campaign was aimed at dismantling criminal networks and cutting off their support structures.

The Nigerian Army added that the operations are part of broader efforts to restore stability in affected communities, urging residents to continue providing useful information to security agencies.