Bandits Find Haven in Abandoned Military Training Ground, Escalating Terror in Abuja and Neighboring States
Recent reports reveal a disturbing trend in the activities of bandits terrorizing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and nearby states of Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Niger. The criminals are reportedly using the Kajuru forest in Southern Kaduna as their operational base, exploiting its strategic location and the fact that it was once utilized by the military for training purposes.
According to credible security sources, the Kajuru forest, once the site of military training operations, has been abandoned by the military, creating an ideal refuge for bandits. The same forest was previously employed by the military to counter criminal elements, with successful operations that temporarily restored peace to the region. However, following the military's departure, the bandits have regrouped, exploiting the vacuum to plan and execute their criminal activities.
The Kajuru forest's strategic location allows the bandits to move freely and plan their operations effectively. Southern Kaduna, known for its extensive forested areas, has become a hotspot for criminal activities, with the bandits utilizing the cover provided by the terrain to launch attacks on the FCT and other nearby towns.
The security sources emphasize that despite occasional military visits to the area, the absence of a sustained presence has allowed the bandits to establish themselves, posing a significant threat to the security of the region. The bandits, aware of the military's broader focus on combating terrorism across the country, have strategically chosen Kajuru as their base for planning and launching attacks on the FCT and surrounding areas.
In response to these claims, the Defence Headquarters has countered, asserting that the Kajuru training area is still actively used by the military for training troops and conducting special operations. This contradiction raises questions about the coordination and effectiveness of military efforts to address the escalating security challenges in the region.
The situation has prompted concerns about the safety and security of residents in the affected areas, especially in the wake of recent abductions that have paralyzed social and economic activities. The bandits' ability to expand their operations from rural areas to major cities, including Abuja, underscores the need for a comprehensive and well-coordinated security strategy.
The recent arrest of bandits, gunrunners, and an informant by the Nigerian security forces is a positive development, indicating ongoing efforts to address the security crisis. However, the complex nature of the situation, coupled with the bandits' adaptability, necessitates a holistic and proactive approach to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected communities.
As the security forces intensify their operations, it is crucial to address not only the immediate threats posed by the bandits but also the underlying factors contributing to the persistence of such criminal activities. This multifaceted approach is essential for achieving sustainable peace and security in the affected regions. The public will be closely watching how authorities navigate these challenges to restore calm and protect the lives and property of citizens.