Matawalle vows strong response after bandits seize armoured tank in Zamfara

In response to the escalating violence from terrorists and bandits in the North-West, particularly in Zamfara, Sokoto and Kebbi States, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence, has called for a shift in the military command structure to the North-West to address the deteriorating security situation.

Recent reports have revealed that bandits have been attacking villages in Sokoto and Zamfara states, kidnapping scores of people and killing those who could not pay ransom. A disturbing viral video has emerged showing bandits capturing a Mine-Proof Armored Personnel Transport (MRAP) belonging to the Nigerian Army.

On Sunday, Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Media and Public Relations, Ministry of Defense, released a statement in which Matawalle voiced serious concerns over the ongoing terrorist and banditry activities in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and Kebbi States.

Matawalle condemned a video circulating showing a Nigerian military armoured vehicle stuck in a waterlogged area. The vehicle was abandoned after military officers retreated to avoid an ambush in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area, Zamfara State.

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In response, Matawalle has instructed the Chief of Defence Staff and other senior military leaders to relocate to Sokoto, which serves as the headquarters of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) for Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and Kebbi states. The move is part of the Federal Government’s intensified efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping and terrorism in the North-West.

“This strategic move underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security in the region. While in the North West, they will oversee the operation and ensure that Bello Turji and his gang of bandits are flushed out,” the statement asserted.

Matawalle stressed that the circulation of videos showing military vehicles in the hands of bandits was unacceptable, especially considering the support given by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The Federal Government remains deeply concerned about the ongoing menace of banditry and terrorism in the North West. Matawalle assured that all necessary resources would be allocated to eradicate these criminal elements and restore peace to the affected communities.

“We must act decisively against these terrorists so that our people can live freely. Time is up for these bandits and terrorists because continuous and persistent operations will weaken all their bases,” Matawalle said.

He urged the Armed Forces of Nigeria to intensify efforts to eradicate banditry and terrorists, assuring the people of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara and Kebbi states and the entire North-West region that the security forces would leave no stone unturned until peace was restored.

“I will be in the North West with the CDS and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform,” Matawalle said.

The minister also called on the people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and Kebbi states to remain vigilant and support the security forces. He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of all Nigerians, stressing that the security and well-being of the people remains the government’s top priority.

Matawalle vows strong response after bandits seize armoured tank in Zamfara first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.