By Our Correspondent
National News – The Nigerian Army has confirmed a major security breakthrough in Bauchi State, where troops eliminated several bandits and rescued kidnapped victims during a coordinated military operation.
The clearance mission, carried out under Operation WUTAN DAJI, targeted criminal hideouts in Kumbodoro Forest and nearby communities, aiming to restore safety and dismantle armed groups threatening residents.
According to the Army, the operation took place on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, with troops from the 33 Artillery Brigade leading the assault.
Supported by air components, soldiers raided multiple enclaves, including the notorious Azuge camps, neutralising several bandits and forcing others to flee.
The offensive successfully disrupted their activities and reduced their operational capacity in the region.
During the mission, eight kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed, marking a significant humanitarian success.
Security forces also recovered weapons and equipment, including skeletal rifles, dane guns, ammunition magazines, communication devices, and other items used by the criminals.
Additional materials such as mobile phones, uniforms, and identity-related items were seized, providing intelligence leads for further operations.
In a related development, troops acting on credible intelligence in Duguri recovered 36 stolen cows abandoned by fleeing bandits at Mushen Kura Village.
Authorities stated that efforts are ongoing to return the livestock to their rightful owners, reinforcing community trust and cooperation.
Meanwhile, the police reported a separate incident at Yankari Game Reserve, where a joint patrol team was ambushed by suspected bandits.
A vigilante member, identified as Hambali Alhaji Sa’adu, lost his life during the attack.
Security operatives later regrouped, pursued the attackers, and engaged them in a gun battle, forcing a retreat.
Four suspects have since been arrested and are under investigation.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-driven operations and collaboration with local communities to eliminate criminal networks and ensure lasting peace across affected areas.
