By HABIBU HARISU

Some residents of Sokoto and environs have celebrated the demise of a notorious bandits? kingpin, Kachallah Halilu Buzu, who was neutralised by gallant troops in Zamfara State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the notorious bandits? kingpin, popularly known as Kachallah or Halilu Buzu, a Nigerien by origin, had not only been terrorising Northwest region but he was also a source of arms and ammunition to many bandits? groups.

Kachalla, who had strong connections in movement of weapons into Nigeria, also served as a mentor to many bandits? gang leaders such as Bello Turji and the likes.

The residents on Saturday hailed the gallant achievement of the Nigerian Army and prayed that the killing of Buzu would open way for elimination and capture of many other gangsters like Bello Turji and others.

In an exciting mode, Alhaji Aliyu Shugaba-Maiyadi, the Chairman, Coalition of Traders? Association, commended the efforts and praised the military in their fight against the scourge of banditry in Sokoto and Zamfara and by extension Northwest region.

Shugaba-Maiyadi said the bravery and swift action of the military ?is commendable? and expressed gratitude for ending to the reign of terror unleashed by ?Kachallah Halilu Buzu Sububu? and his cohorts.

He described the victory as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Army to protecting the lives and livelihoods of the citizens.

He said, people of Sokoto state through various mediums have indeed expressed gratitude to the Minister of State for Defense, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, Nigerian Army and all other security agencies over their patriotic commitment to end the security challenges in the region.

He assured continued support and prayers for total success in the ongoing assaults against bandits and their hideouts.

?People of Sokoto state and surrounding communities can now breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that the military is steadfast in its resolve to protect them.

?The victory is a morale booster to both troops and the general public. Therefore, we urge them to continue with their relentless efforts in pursuit of those who seek to harm the innocent citizens,? he pleaded.

Another resident, Alhaji Balarabe Maikano, noted that the successful operation served as a testament to the effectiveness of the strategy adopted by the Nigerian Army and its commitment to ridding the region of banditry and terrorism.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that on Thursday, the military launched a massive assault on the bandits? hideouts in Zamfara, resulting in the killing of numerous bandits, including Kachallah Halilu Buzu.

The Incident was confirmed by the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, and assured of more onslaughts against bandits and other criminals across the country.

According to a statement, Troops of the Nigeria Army had eliminated a terrorists? kingpin, infamously known as Halilu Buzu and a good number of his fighters at Mayanchi village in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara. (NAN)

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