Military of Nigeria eliminates over a hundred suspected criminals during operation in northwestern region
In the northwestern state of Nigeria, Zamfara, a significant increase in bandit attacks has been observed. These attacks, marked by frequent deadly raids, mass kidnappings, and killings, have seriously destabilized security in the region [1][2][3][4].
The scale and coordination of these attacks suggest a connection with organized crime. Bandit gangs, heavily armed and involved in large-scale violence, abductions, and sometimes ransom killings, indicate a criminal network with logistics and planning capacity beyond spontaneous violence [2][3][4].
The Nigerian military has responded with intensified operations against bandits. Recently, an air and ground ambush resulted in the death of over 100 bandits who were planning attacks on farming villages [5]. However, insecurity persists, as shown by ongoing abductions and killings despite these efforts [4].
The conflict in Zamfara state has led to a malnutrition crisis in the northwest due to people being driven away from their farms. The crisis has evolved into organized crime, with gangs preying on rural communities with little or no government presence. Bandits in Zamfara state have been levying taxes on farmers and artisanal miners [5].
The origin of Nigeria's "banditry" crisis lies in conflict over land and water rights between herders and farmers. Cattle rustling and kidnapping have become significant sources of income in the impoverished countryside. Moreover, bandits in Zamfara state are increasing their cooperation with Nigeria's jihadist groups [6].
In July, at least 95 members of an armed gang were killed in a shootout and air strikes in the northwest state of Niger. The violence in Zamfara state has spread out of its northwestern heartland into central Nigeria.
On Friday, Bukkuyum's Adabka village was the scene of a bandit attack that resulted in the kidnapping of residents and the death of 13 security personnel [7]. No new information about this incident was provided.
The military deployment to fight criminal gangs in Zamfara state since 2015 and the creation of a militia force by the state government have not resulted in a decrease in violence. The bandits in Zamfara state are primarily motivated by money, and the conflict shows no signs of abating anytime soon.
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