Four Killed as Bandits Occupy Duguri Forest, Bauchi Governor Raises Alarm

From Paul Orude Bauchi

At least four residents have been killed in a bandit attack in Bauchi State, as Governor Bala Mohammed raised the alarm over the occupation of forests in the Duguri axis by armed bandits terrorising local communities.

The governor spoke during a sympathy visit to Kafin Duguri in Alkaleri Local Government Area on Tuesday, following a recent attack on the community.

Commending the residents for their bravery, Mohammed praised the courage and resilience displayed in repelling the attackers despite being outgunned.

“For you to face these people with superior weapons and over 100 motorcycles armed with AK-47 rifles shows courage and character. I understand many of them were neutralised before they fled with their dead,” the governor said.

He lamented that despite significant successes recorded by his administration in tackling banditry across several parts of the state, the challenge has persisted in Duguri, his ancestral area.

“Since I became governor, we have been able to subdue banditry in Tafawa Balewa, Toro, Ningi, Ganjuwa, Jama’are and parts of Bauchi metropolis. But, by the test of life, this menace has refused to leave my own area, Duguri,” he stated.

Governor Mohammed disclosed that bandits have occupied a forest area known as Daji Madam, noting that security agencies are currently overwhelmed by their presence, forcing residents to resort to self-defence.

He further revealed that he had travelled to Abuja where he briefed President Bola Tinubu on the situation.

According to him, the President has directed that his condolences be conveyed to the affected families and assured that the Presidency would intervene to provide additional security support to the community.

“The President has asked me to condole with you. He is with you and has assured that necessary support, including improved security assistance, will be provided to restore peace,” the governor said.

Mohammed assured the community that the state government would work with traditional rulers, security agencies and other stakeholders to protect the families of the deceased and prevent further attacks, stressing that all actions would be taken in line with established rules of engagement