Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdukadir Mohammed, has directed security agencies to sustain joint operations against criminal elements, warning that renewed threats require coordinated action to protect lives, property and vulnerable communities across the state.
This was as the governor commended the security agencies for their successful operations against terrorists in Alkaleri Local Government Area, describing the military offensive as a major breakthrough in the state’s fight against insecurity.
Governor Mohammed, who was speaking during a meeting of the Bauchi State Security Council on Thursday, instructed security forces to replicate the recent successes recorded in Alkaleri, Ningi, Ganjuwa, Toro and other affected local government areas through intensified patrols and coordinated ground operations.
He urged security agencies to deny criminals freedom of movement by increasing patrols, dismantling forest hideouts and strengthening surveillance across border communities vulnerable to kidnappings, banditry and infiltration.
The governor warned traditional rulers against harbouring criminals, allocating land to suspicious persons or facilitating illegal activities, stressing that offenders would face sanctions in accordance with the provisions of the law.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting security agencies through improved logistics, technology, expanded military presence and additional police stations, while encouraging stronger collaboration with communities and traditional institutions across Bauchi.
Mohammed further urged security agencies to remain professional and impartial during forthcoming political activities, ensuring adequate protection for citizens, political parties and democratic processes while maintaining peace and public order across the state.
He praised the Nigerian Army, the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), vigilante groups and other security operatives for their gallantry and coordinated efforts.
The governor also commended troops of the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division and the 33 Artillery Brigade for intelligence-led operations that dislodged terrorists from Mansur Village and surrounding enclaves, dismantled their camps and neutralised several high-profile criminal elements.
According to him, the operation also paved the way for thousands of displaced residents to safely return to their ancestral communities.
Mohammed expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser and the Service Chiefs for supporting the operations that resulted in the military successes.