Kogi govt intensifies crackdown on banditry, destroys camps, arrests two

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Kogi State Government’s ongoing efforts to combat banditry have yielded results, with the demolition of bandits’ camps and the arrest of two injured bandits and their accomplices in Aherin-Bunu community Kabba-Bunu Local Government Areas.

Following the governor’s directive, the combined security forces, led by the State Security Adviser, Cdr Jerry Omodara (rtd), razed and set ablaze the bandits’ camps and hideouts in Aherin-Bunu community.

Speaking to journalists at the location on Thursday, Omodara said two wounded bandits and fake doctors were apprehended in a settlement in Aherin-Bunu.

The security Adviser, acting on intelligence information, noted that the security agencies, arrested two wounded bandits who were receiving treatment from local doctors in the settlements.

The doctors, who were treating the bandits have been apprehended.

According to Omodara, the bandits had sustained gunshot injuries in a previous encounter with security forces.

Following the arrest, Governor Usman Ododo directed that the bandits’ camps and settlements be wiped out.

Acting on the governor’s directive, the combined security forces demolished the camps, including a makeshift clinic, and destroyed the bandits’ farmland and farm produce”.

Omodara emphasised that the security agencies have saturated the state, making it difficult for bandits to hide.

He warned that anyone caught perpetrating, abetting, or collaborating with criminals would be dealt with, regardless of their status or identity.

“We received intel that two bandits were receiving treatment in a settlement in Aherin-Bunu community in Kabba-Bunu LGA.

“We swiftly deployed security personnel and arrested the two wounded bandits.

The Governor directed that any house used for treating bandits should be demolished.

We’re arresting fake doctors treating them and warning that anyone perpetrating, abetting, or collaborating with criminals will be dealt with, regardless of their status.

“We won’t accept that and we’re not going to allow it,” Omodara said.

He stressed that the operation is part of the Kogi State Government’s ongoing onslaught against banditry and other criminal activities, which is yielding unprecedented results.

“Gov. Ahmed Ododo reiterated his commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property in the state,” he said.