Jihadists, terrorists have taken over banditry, Army laments

Nigerian Army on Tuesday expressed concerns that terrorists and Jihadists have taken over banditry operations in Zamfara state.

The Theatre Command of Operation Hadarin Daji, Major-General Jide Ogunlade, disclosed this at a press briefing at the command headquarters in Gusau, on Tuesday.

He said:  “Jihadists and terrorists have now infiltrated the ranks of bandits that are operating in the bushes of Zamfara.

“Banditry is now heading towards terrorism and they are identifiable through their headgear, which carries ‘Jihad’ inscription.

“Since the criminals are changing tactics, we are also changing ours and if they increase in numbers, we will most likely advise the Federal Government to declare them as terrorists.

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“Our operatives are now in high morale and thanks to the Presidency and the nation’s service chiefs for establishing and adequately supporting Operation Hadarin Daji.

“….We have opened up a communications centre that will offer 24-hour service for our callers to give credible information that will help in arresting any security breach.

“We are hoping that the telephone service providers as partners are expected to allow callers to make distress calls toll free so that the information can continue to flow.”

He appealed to members of the public, especially rural dwellers, to always give credible information to the command, and assured that callers’ identity would be confidential.

 

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