Zamfara Police Repel Bandit Attack, Eliminate 6 Terrorists, Arrest 21 Suspects
Security agencies in Zamfara State have recorded significant operational gains in separate anti-crime operations, including the neutralisation of six suspected bandits during a foiled attack in Maru Local Government Area and the arrest of 21 suspects alongside the recovery of 20 motorcycles in Gusau.
Security sources said the first incident occurred on June 9 at about 11:00 a.m. when a large number of armed bandits invaded Kanoma Town and Gidan Daji Village in Kanoma District of Maru LGA.
The attackers were reportedly armed with sophisticated weapons, including rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), general-purpose machine guns (GPMGs), anti-aircraft guns, and AK-47 rifles, in an apparent coordinated assault on the communities.
A distress call triggered the immediate mobilisation of a joint security response team comprising police tactical operatives from Maru Division, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, personnel of the Violence Crime Response Unit (VCRU), and local vigilantes.
Led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), the combined forces engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle and successfully repelled the assault, preventing entry into the affected communities.
During the encounter, six bandits riding on two motorcycles were neutralised, while several others escaped into surrounding forests with suspected gunshot wounds. No casualties were recorded among security personnel or residents.
Following the operation, security has been reinforced in the area, with sustained patrols aimed at stabilising the communities and tracking fleeing suspects.
In a separate development, the Zamfara State Police Command arrested 21 suspects and recovered 20 motorcycles during a coordinated crackdown on suspected criminal elements in Gusau Local Government Area.
According to the Command, the operation followed repeated complaints from residents of Birnin Ruwa, Tullukawa, and Yar Gada communities over the activities of groups of youths allegedly involved in reckless motorcycle riding and public disorder.
On June 7 at about 7:30 p.m., police operatives conducted targeted raids on identified black spots and criminal hideouts across the affected areas, leading to the arrests and recoveries.
The Command said the suspects are undergoing screening and investigation, and those found culpable will be charged to court in line with applicable laws.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to sustained operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, curbing public disorder, and enhancing security across Zamfara State.
Residents were urged to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to support ongoing security operations, as law enforcement agencies intensify efforts to maintain peace and public safety in the state.
By TimesNG