Marwa: Nigerian Military Equipped to Tackle Banditry as Effectively as Insurgency

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd.), has reassured Nigerians of the military’s capability to address banditry, similar to its success against insurgency.

In response to a viral video showing bandits celebrating after capturing a military armoured vehicle stuck in mud in Kwashabawa, Zamfara State, Marwa emphasized the importance of supporting the Armed Forces.

During a courtesy visit from Major General Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Marwa expressed confidence in the military’s ability to tackle banditry, highlighting their previous successes in countering insurgency in the North East.

He urged Nigerians to stand with the military and other security agencies, noting that the Armed Forces have historically been effective and respected for their professionalism, both domestically and internationally.

Marwa also called for public support through encouragement, scholarships for soldiers’ children, and aid for their families. He emphasized that the same forces capable of handling Boko Haram are well-positioned to end current banditry.

Major General Laka discussed the link between drug abuse and crime, noting that NDLEA’s efforts have significantly disrupted criminal activities. He proposed further collaboration between NCTC and NDLEA to address these issues through strategic communication and public awareness campaigns.