Nigerian troops have reportedly killed scores of suspected bandits in Maikujera, Sokoto, disrupting a route allegedly used to move rustled cattle.
A major military operation around Maikujera in Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State has reportedly left scores of suspected bandits dead as troops move to cut off a key route allegedly used by criminal groups to move rustled cattle.
The operation, which was still ongoing on Friday, is believed to have dealt a significant setback to the armed group operating around the area, with troops pursuing suspected bandits who fled into surrounding farms and thick vegetation.
The Nigerian Army has confirmed the operation, with the Spokesperson of the 8 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, describing the mission as a “hugely successful operation.” He added that further details would be made available later.
Although the Army did not immediately disclose the number of casualties recorded among the suspected criminals, residents and local sources said the confrontation resulted in heavy losses for the group.
The offensive reportedly involved the use of Armoured Personnel Carriers and other military assets as soldiers moved into the area in pursuit of the armed men.
Rather than remaining in their positions, several of the suspected bandits reportedly abandoned their weapons and attempted to disappear into the surrounding vegetation when they came under intense pressure from the troops.
A resident of Maikujera who spoke with our correspondent said the military presence in the area had become substantial, with troops combing locations believed to have been used by the criminals.
“Some of the bandits abandoned their rifles and escaped into nearby farms, taking advantage of the thick vegetation to conceal themselves,” the resident said.
Another source familiar with the development said some of the fleeing suspects tried to make their way towards a nearby hill after the military intensified its advance.
The attempt, according to the source, did not immediately end the pursuit, as troops continued to move after the suspects in an effort to stop them from escaping and regrouping elsewhere.
The operation has also drawn attention to the movement of cattle through the area. Local sources alleged that the suspected bandits were transporting rustled livestock along the Maikujera axis when the military operation disrupted their activities.
During the confrontation, the criminals were reportedly attempting to use some of the cattle as cover. The ensuing encounter caused the animals to scatter, with some reportedly killed while others ran into nearby forests.
The cattle that escaped were said to have dispersed into the surrounding bush as the military maintained pressure on the suspected bandits.
Maikujera is believed to be important to the criminal network because of its proximity to forest routes connecting several communities and local government areas in Sokoto State.
Sources alleged that the suspected bandits operating in the area were linked to the network associated with notorious bandit leader Bello Turji.
They further claimed that the group had been using the route to move cattle allegedly stolen from Gandi town and other communities within Rabah Local Government Area.
From the Maikujera axis, the livestock were reportedly moved through the expansive Gundumi forest towards areas around Sabon Birni and Isa Local Government Areas.
The alleged route provides access to large stretches of forest, making it easier for criminal groups to move between communities while avoiding direct contact with security forces.
The military operation therefore appears to have a wider objective beyond the immediate confrontation, particularly if troops are able to disrupt the routes allegedly used to transport stolen livestock and move armed men between hideouts.
For people living around Maikujera, the development has provided some relief after prolonged concerns over the activities of armed groups in the area.
Bandit attacks, cattle rustling and the presence of criminal elements in surrounding forests have remained major concerns for residents, particularly those whose livelihoods depend on farming and livestock-related activities.
Residents are, however, aware that the reported casualties among the suspected bandits may not necessarily bring an immediate end to criminal activities in the area.
They have therefore urged security agencies to maintain pressure on the groups and continue monitoring the forests after the current operation.
The concern is that criminals who manage to escape could regroup in another location, establish fresh camps or return to communities once the military presence is reduced.
Troops were reportedly still conducting mop-up operations around Maikujera as of Friday, with surrounding bushes, farms and strategic routes being searched.
The military is also expected to pay particular attention to routes connecting Rabah with Sabon Birni and Isa, given the allegations that the corridors have been exploited by criminal groups.
Security sources and residents believe that maintaining control of these routes would be crucial to preventing fleeing suspects from escaping into other areas.
There are also calls for stronger intelligence gathering, with residents stressing that information from communities could help security agencies identify the movements of armed groups before they launch attacks or move stolen property.
The latest operation highlights the continuing battle to deny criminal groups access to the vast forest areas across parts of Sokoto State.
While the Army’s assessment of the operation suggests that troops achieved a significant victory, the real test will be whether the offensive can prevent the suspected bandits from reorganising and returning to the area.
For now, soldiers remain engaged in the mop-up phase, searching for fleeing suspects and attempting to secure the routes around Maikujera.
Residents are hoping the operation will mark more than a temporary disruption and lead to sustained security pressure capable of breaking the networks that have continued to threaten communities in the area.
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