CDS Deploys Special Operations Brigade Against Lakurawas Sect In Sokoto, Kebbi

By Zagazola Makama

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has deployed a Special Operations Brigade to combat the activities of the Lakurawas sect in Sokoto and Kebbi states.

The deployment, announced on Friday, is part of efforts to consolidate on the gains of Operation Forest Sanity III (Chase Lakurawas Out) and ensure the complete neutralization of the sect’s activities in the region.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Brig.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, addressed the troops in Sokoto on behalf of the Theatre Commander, Maj.-Gen. Oluyinka Soyele.

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Ajose urged the troops to maintain high standards of professionalism while adhering strictly to the rules of engagement during the mission.

“You were selected for this mission because of your specialized training and competence. Nigerians are counting on your resolve to eliminate the Lakurawas sect and restore peace to the affected communities,” Ajose said.

He emphasized the importance of protecting the lives and property of law-abiding citizens during the operation.

The deployment follows precursor and shaping operations conducted under Operation FANSAN YAMMA by troops of the 8 Division Nigerian Army.

The operations targeted identified sect hideouts in Rumji Dutse, East of Sarma, Tsauna and Bauni, Malgatawa, Gargao, Tsauna and Magara forests, as well as in Kaideji, Nakuru, Sama, Sanyinna, Kadidda, Kolo, and Dancha villages in Illela, Tangaza, and Binji Local Government Areas.

According to Ajose, these operations resulted in the destruction of 22 camps, the neutralization of numerous sect members, and the recovery of four rifles, 409 rounds of PKT 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and 94 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

The Special Operations Brigade is expected to sustain the momentum of these achievements and intensify efforts to disrupt the sect’s activities, enhance security, and restore normalcy to the region.

The CDS expressed confidence in the troops’ capacity to deliver results, reiterating the military’s commitment to eradicating threats to peace and security in the North-West.