The new Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force, Northwest Operation Fansan Yamma, OPFY, Maj.-Gen. Bello Idris, has vowed to completely rid Zamfara State of banditry, insisting that the military will pursue a decisive and aggressive strategy against criminal groups.
Idris, who took over the OPFY in November following his redeployment from the Defence Headquarters Department of Transformation and Innovation, made the declaration on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to Governor Dauda Lawal in Gusau.
He said eliminating banditry in Zamfara remained crucial to restoring security across the country, noting that the military would intensify operations and dismantle networks sustaining criminal activities in the state.
According to him, new operational concepts aimed at efficiency, deeper community engagement, and improved coordination will be introduced in the coming weeks.
The commander expressed concern that many bandits either reside within local communities or maintain strong support systems among residents.
He vowed that such alliances would be confronted and neutralised through enhanced intelligence gathering and security presence.
Idris disclosed that more manpower, logistics and equipment would be deployed to support the renewed offensive, adding that OPFY would adopt a mobile and aggressive posture to flush out the criminals.
He commended Governor Lawal for improved road infrastructure and continuous support to security agencies operating in the state.
In his remarks, Governor Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the military operation, saying the state had procured 30 Armoured Personnel Carriers, APCs, to strengthen the fight against banditry.
Describing Idris as a “son of the soil,” the governor said the commander’s familiarity with the terrain would contribute to the success of the renewed offensive.
He also reiterated that his administration would not negotiate with bandits under any circumstances.
Maj.-Gen. Idris currently oversees joint operations in the North West and parts of the North Central, covering Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Sokoto and Zamfara states.