Matawalle Orders Fresh Military Offensive After Zamfara Terror Attacks

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

Matawalle issued the directive while expressing sympathy to victims of the attacks, particularly residents of Bungudu Local Government Area and other affected communities.

His position was contained in a statement released on Sunday by his spokesperson, Ahmad Dan-Wudil.

According to the statement, the minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to restoring peace and improving security across the North-West despite the recent escalation of terrorist activities.

He instructed the leadership of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to sustain and strengthen its offensive against terrorist groups in collaboration with other security agencies operating in the region.

Matawalle also directed military formations involved in counter-terrorism operations across Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Sokoto and Kaduna states to intensify their operations using every lawful means available to dismantle terrorist networks through targeted military actions.

The minister appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders and members of the public to support security agencies by providing credible and timely intelligence on individuals collaborating with terrorists or supplying information used to facilitate attacks.

He further ordered senior military commanders in volatile communities to strengthen surveillance and increase patrols aimed at identifying and destroying terrorist camps, hideouts and other safe havens before they could be used to launch fresh attacks.

Matawalle commended officers and personnel of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for what he described as their professionalism, resilience and sacrifices in the fight against insecurity.

He specifically praised recent operations that reportedly led to the neutralisation of several terrorists in Gummi, Bukkuyum, Anka, Tsafe, Faskari and other locations across the North-West.

The minister urged troops to sustain the current momentum of military operations and maintain pressure on terrorist groups until lasting peace and security are restored across the affected states.

He assured residents that the Federal Government remained committed to eliminating terrorism and protecting lives and property throughout the region.