Matawalle consoles victims of Zamfara terrorist attacks

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has condoled with victims of the recent terrorist attacks in Zamfara State and directed the military to intensify ongoing counter-terrorism operations across the North-West.

The minister expressed his condolences to the people of Bungudu Local Government Area and other affected communities following the recent wave of attacks by terrorists.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, on Sunday, Matawalle reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to restoring peace and improving security despite the recent escalation of attacks in parts of the North-West.

He directed the leadership of Operation Fansan Yamma to “remain resolute and sustain the offensive against terrorists in collaboration with other security agencies operating in the affected areas.”

“Matawalle also instructed Operation Fansan Yamma and all military formations engaged in counter-terrorism operations across Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Sokoto and Kaduna states to intensify their operations by deploying every lawful and necessary measure to eliminate terrorist activities through targeted military operations.

“The minister further appealed to the public, particularly traditional rulers and community leaders, to support security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence on individuals collaborating with terrorists or supplying information used to carry out attacks on rural communities,” the statement read.

He also directed senior military commanders in the most volatile operational areas to strengthen surveillance and increase patrols aimed at identifying and destroying terrorist hideouts, camps and safe havens before they could be used to launch further attacks.

Matawalle commended the gallantry, professionalism and sacrifices of the Armed Forces and other security personnel, praising their recent successes in neutralising several high-profile and low-level terrorists in Gummi, Bukkuyum, Anka, Tsafe, Faskari and other locations.

He urged the troops to “sustain the momentum and continue applying decisive pressure until terrorism is completely defeated across all affected parts of the country.”