Inside story of Northwest bandits exodus to Kwara forests
Story by Susan Mbamah
Security sources and local communities have revealed the growing migration of bandits from Northwest Nigeria into the forests of Kwara State, following intensified military operations in their traditional strongholds.
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Reports indicate that criminal gangs, facing pressure from sustained counterinsurgency campaigns in states such as Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina, are relocating to remote forested areas in Kwara to regroup, evade capture, and continue their criminal activities. These forests are providing cover for kidnappings, cattle rustling, and other violent crimes targeting local communities.
Authorities say the movement of these gangs has complicated security efforts, prompting joint operations involving the Nigerian Army, Police, and local vigilante groups to patrol the affected forest corridors. Residents in border and forest communities have been advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
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The development underscores the evolving tactics of bandits in Nigeria, highlighting the need for adaptive security strategies and inter-state cooperation to prevent the spread of criminal networks into new regions.
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