Odita Sunday 
The Nigerian Army has intensified its offensive against bandits in Bauchi State, recording significant gains in ongoing clearance operations across criminal hideouts.
Troops of the 33 Artillery Brigade, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), carried out a major operation in the Dajin Madam Forest, where several camps belonging to bandits were dislodged.
A statement on Wednesday said the operation successfully cleared notorious enclaves, including Azuge and Hari camps, thereby disrupting criminal activities in the area.
During the operation, a number of bandits were neutralised, while others fled under sustained military pressure.
The statement added that family members of the bandits, comprising six women and 13 children, were taken into custody.
It also disclosed that troops destroyed several motorcycles used by the bandits, limiting their mobility.
Items recovered from the camps include an AK-47 magazine, tramadol packs, a police uniform, military uniforms, and two horses.
The Army said troops are maintaining their position in the forest to prevent the regrouping of fleeing bandits.
In a related development, troops conducted a follow-up operation in Mainamaji area after recent air strikes on bandit hideouts.
According to the statement, no contact was made during the operation, an indication that sustained military pressure has weakened the bandits’ presence.
The Army reiterated its commitment to restoring peace and urged the public to provide credible information to security agencies.
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