Army Debunks Bandit Presence Near 8 Division Headquarters as GOC Visits Shuni Community
Army Debunks Bandit Presence Near 8 Division Headquarters as GOC Visits Shuni Community
Army Debunks Bandit Presence Near 8 Division Headquarters as GOC Visits Shuni Community
The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports alleging that armed bandits had established a base in Dalijan community near the Headquarters of the 8 Division Nigerian Army in Sokoto State, describing the claims as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic.
The reports had claimed that bandits were operating in Dalijan, located about two kilometres from Shuni and less than seven kilometres from the 8 Division Headquarters, raising concerns due to the community’s proximity to the military formation.
In response, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Bemgha Paul Koughna, paid a confidence-building visit to Shuni and surrounding communities to personally assess the security situation.
During the visit, the GOC inspected troop deployments, evaluated operational readiness and interacted with military personnel, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to maintaining security across the area.
Military sources said the visit confirmed that while troops remain vigilant against criminal activities in the general axis, reports suggesting that bandits had gained a foothold close to the Division Headquarters did not reflect the actual security situation.
According to the sources, troops continue to maintain a strong operational presence in the area, supported by surveillance and clearance operations aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of movement.
The Army noted that the visit also demonstrated its commitment to transparency and public reassurance, stressing that senior commanders are prepared to verify operational situations firsthand whenever public confidence is threatened.
It added that misinformation can undermine public trust, disrupt economic activities and create unnecessary fear, making responsible information sharing an important aspect of national security.
Residents were urged to avoid circulating unverified reports and instead provide timely and credible intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing counter-banditry operations.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed that security operations across Sokoto State and the wider North-West remain active, with troops committed to protecting lives, securing communities and preventing criminal groups from gaining operational advantage.
Army Debunks Bandit Presence Near 8 Division Headquarters as GOC Visits Shuni Community
