Troops Overrun Terrorists’ Camps, Capture Families, Destroy Logistics in Bauchi Forest.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu
Northern Bureau Chief, Democracy Newsline
April 15, 2026.
In a decisive escalation of counter-banditry operations, troops of the Nigerian Army have overrun multiple camps in Dajin Madam Forest, dismantling key logistics networks, capturing family members of suspected bandits, and significantly degrading criminal strongholds in the region.
According to an operational report obtained in Abuja and released through the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday, the offensive was executed by troops of the 33 Artillery Brigade in collaboration with operatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser.
The report detailed how troops successfully cleared notorious enclaves, including the Azuge and Hari camps—locations long associated with coordinated attacks, kidnappings, and supply operations by armed groups operating within Bauchi State.
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Military sources confirmed that several bandits were neutralised during the operation, while others fled deeper into surrounding terrain under sustained pressure from advancing troops. The offensive marks one of the most significant breakthroughs in recent months within the forest corridor.
In the course of the operation, troops took into custody 19 individuals identified as family members of the fleeing bandits, including six women and 13 children. Security analysts suggest such arrests could provide valuable intelligence into the structure and movement patterns of the criminal networks.
Multiple AK-47 magazines
Quantities of tramadol and other illicit substances
Fake identity materials linked to impersonation schemes
A police uniform and several military uniforms,
Two horses believed to have been used for mobility within forest terrain
Additionally, troops destroyed several motorcycles, a critical asset for bandits’ rapid movement and escape during operations.
Security experts note that the destruction of mobility assets and logistics hubs significantly weakens the operational capacity of armed groups. Motorcycles, in particular, have been central to hit-and-run attacks across northern Nigeria.
The report also highlighted the arrest of a teenage logistics courier allegedly linked to previous attacks in the Jilli axis, underscoring the expanding intelligence dimension of the operation.
Consolidation and Follow-Up Operations.
Troops have now established a firm presence within Dajin Madam Forest to prevent re-infiltration and consolidate gains. In a related development, a follow-up clearance operation was conducted at Mainamaji after recent air strikes on suspected hideouts.
Notably, no resistance was encountered during the follow-up mission—an indication, according to military sources, that sustained pressure has forced bandits to abandon key positions.
Broader Security Context
The operation reflects a growing shift toward coordinated ground and intelligence-driven offensives involving multiple security agencies. Analysts say such synergy is crucial in dismantling decentralized bandit networks that rely on local support systems and difficult terrain.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to maintaining relentless pressure on criminal elements until peace is fully restored across affected communities. It also called on citizens to support security efforts by providing timely and credible information.
As operations continue, residents of Bauchi and neighboring states remain cautiously optimistic that sustained military action will bring lasting stability to the region.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, APRIL 15TH 2026)
