From Maiharaji Altine
Governor Bello Mattawalle of Zamfara state has condoled the military authorities and the families of the soldiers killed by bandits in the state.
The Governor equally commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives in the course of Air force operations in various communities in the state.
In a broadcast to the people of the state this night, and Governor Matawalle expressed shock over what happened last Sunday where soldiers and locals lost their lives as a result of banditry activities.
The Governor however commended the military for neutralizing large number of bandits who have been terrorizing the people of the state.
Matawalle said, “I want to use this opportunity to condole with our military authorities, families, and colleagues of the fallen heroes over their loss”.
“I equally commiserate with the families of those who lost their lives in the course of the operations in our various communities. May their souls rest in peace”.
Matawalle said his government would support the injured and the families of those who lost their lives from the side of the affected communities and the security forces.
He said, “It becomes necessary for me to address you this evening about the ongoing crackdown on notorious bandits who have been terrorising locals around Dansadau emirate, particularly at Malele in Mutunji District and nearby communities”.
“As you are aware, on Sunday, the 18th day of December 2022, our security forces carried out a well-coordinated aerial and ground onslaught on the enclaves of the recalcitrant bandits who were planning to invade Muntunji, Malele, and other surrounding villages”.
“The successful preemptive offensive by the gallant military forces has yielded significant results worthy of commendation
“Several bandits have been neutralized, their settlements destroyed, and a large cache of their weaponry recovered”.
“It was a complex and daring operation by our brave security forces which has immensely contributed to making the communities around Dansadau axis safer”.
The Governor stressed that the success of the operation was a testament to the bravery and dedication of the armed forces.
“I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to them for their sustained efforts in protecting our communities and crushing banditry and other crimes in all parts of our State”. Said Matawalle.
He maitained that, for too long, the good people of the State have lived in fear of the bandits who have plagued many communities, causing untold suffering and hardship.
The criminal elements according to the Governor have shown no regard for the lives and well-being of the citizens and have by terrorising the state with their ruthless acts of violence in various forms.
“But thanks to the efforts of our security forces, particularly the Nigerian army and air force”.
“We are witnessing a significant turning point in the fight against these bandits”.
He stressed that in recent operations, the armed forces have successfully taken out scores of bandits, bringing an end to their reign of terror and bringing the much-needed relief to the people of the state.
“This is a momentous occasion, and I want to take this opportunity to thank the brave men and women of the Nigerian army and air force who have risked their lives to protect our communities”.
“Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and I am deeply grateful for their service to our dear State'”‘.
“I am aware that in the course of the onslaught against these barbarous elements, scores of lives have been lost from the sides of the friendly communities and the security forces”.
“Such casuals are common in complex operations like the one conducted in the area”.
“I use this opportunity to condole with our military authorities, families, and colleagues of the fallen heroes over the loss”.
“I equally commiserate with the families of those who lost their lives in the course of the operations in our various communities. May their souls rest in peace”. Said Matawalle.
He said that his government would support the injured and the families of those who lost their lives from the side of the affected communities and the security forces.
He however stressed that, there was still much to be done in order to completely rid the state of the terrorists.
“While we celebrate the recent successes, we must also recognise that there is still much work to be done”.
“The fight against banditry is ongoing, and we must remain vigilant in our efforts to bring these criminals to justice and ensure the safety and security of our communities”.
“To this end, I want to reassure our people that my administration will remain committed to working closely with the Nigerian army, air force and other security forces to continue the fight against banditry”.
He said, his administration would do everything in its power to provide the necessary resources and support to the armed forces so that they could continue to keep communities safe and secure.
He urged the people of the state to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
“Your cooperation is essential in the fight against banditry, and together we can work to create a safer and more secure Zamfara State for all”. Concluded Matawalle.
