The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has directed the military to intensify ongoing counter-terrorism operations across the North-West following the recent wave of terrorist attacks in Zamfara State.
Matawalle issued the directive while condoling with victims of the attacks, particularly residents of Bungudu Local Government Area and other affected communities.
In a statement released on Sunday by his spokesperson, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, the minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to restoring peace and improving security across the region despite the recent escalation in terrorist activities.
He instructed the leadership of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to sustain its offensive against terrorists in collaboration with other security agencies operating in the affected areas.
Matawalle also directed Operation FANSAN YAMMA and other military formations conducting counter-terrorism operations in Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Sokoto and Kaduna states to intensify their efforts using every lawful measure to eliminate terrorist groups through targeted military actions.
The minister appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders and residents to support security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence on individuals collaborating with terrorists or supplying information used to facilitate attacks.
He further ordered senior military commanders in volatile areas to strengthen surveillance and increase patrols to identify and destroy terrorist camps, hideouts and safe havens before they can be used to launch further attacks.
Matawalle commended the Armed Forces and other security personnel for their professionalism and sacrifices, praising recent operations that led to the neutralisation of several terrorists in Gummi, Bukkuyum, Anka, Tsafe, Faskari and other locations.
He urged troops to sustain the momentum of ongoing operations and maintain pressure on terrorist groups until lasting peace and security are restored across the affected states.
