THEATRE COMMANDER ORDERS TROOPS TO CRUSH BANDITS “WITHOUT RELENTING” IN SOKOTO

The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), Major General W.B. Idris, has charged troops of the 8 Division and Sector 2 to intensify their offensive and ensure the total eradication of armed bandits from the North West.

The directive was issued during his maiden operational assessment visit to the 8 Division and Sector 2 headquarters at Giginya Barracks, Sokoto, according to a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba.

Addressing the troops, Major General Idris said the visit was aimed at evaluating their performance, reviewing training procedures, and assessing the welfare of personnel, including those wounded in action. 

He urged the soldiers to brace for a more aggressive phase of operations, stressing that the tempo of the campaign was set to escalate.

Additionally, he emphasized that victory over banditry would require steadfast courage, discipline, and sacrifice from the troops. The commander also assured them of enhanced combat resources, logistics, and other necessary support to bolster their operational effectiveness.

Major General Idris commended the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 OPFY, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, for his proactive leadership and efforts to neutralize security threats within the area of responsibility. 

He also visited wounded personnel, assuring them of the best available medical care, and later shared a morale-boosting meal with frontline troops at the 248 Battalion in Ilela.