Troops of the 33 Artillery Brigade under Operation WUTAN DAJI have recorded a major breakthrough after a coordinated clearance mission in Kumbodoro Forest and Kumbodoro Village in Bauchi State.
The Nigerian Army said the operation disrupted bandit networks that have been active in the area. It described the outcome as a serious blow to criminal elements.
During the mission, troops cleared several hideouts used by bandits, including the well-known Azuge camps within the Kumbodoro Forest axis. Air support played a key role in the operation. Several bandits were neutralised, while their key bases were destroyed. The action also led to the rescue of eight kidnapped victims.
Security forces carried out a detailed search of the camps. They recovered weapons and other items. These include four skeletal rifles, four dane guns, one FN rifle magazine and one AK-47 magazine. Troops also found communication gadgets and other materials linked to the group’s activities.
Other items recovered include two pairs of boots, three helmets, a power bank, a StarTimes decoder, QJC meta links, a jackknife, six mobile phones, arrows, radio chargers, OPAY ATM cards, photographs, an identity card, several security agency uniforms and leg chains.
In a separate development, troops deployed in Duguri acted on intelligence and worked with local vigilantes to recover 36 cows at Mushen Kura Village. Authorities believe the animals were abandoned by fleeing bandits due to sustained military pressure. Efforts are ongoing to trace the rightful owners.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to restoring peace and stability across affected areas. It said operations will continue with the support of intelligence and collaboration with other partners to deny criminals safe haven.
