Fear hangs heavy in the air of Old Kuyallo around the Birnin Gwari area of Kaduna State following a bloody clash between Ansaru terrorists and a local bandit-terrorist group.
The confrontation, which erupted in the disputed mining territory between Kwasa-Kwasa and Unguwar Makera, reportedly resulted in casualties, including seven civilians and an unspecified number of terrorists on both sides.
A security analyst and counter-insurgency expert in the Lakechad region and West Africa Zagazola Makama was quoted to have been saying the notorious bandit kingpin Mudi and his children were among those killed.
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Bandits have threatened brutal retaliation against Old Kuyallo residents, creating a sense of vulnerability and triggering a mass exodus due to the lack of government security presence.
Sources reveal that the bandits have reinforced their position and potentially dislodged Ansaru’s headquarters, suggesting a potential escalation of violence between the two outlaw groups.
This internal conflict has weakened both Ansaru and the bandits.
It was learned that It presents a critical opportunity for the government to intervene and prevent further radicalization by Ansaru. Offering security and support to the displaced residents is crucial.
Also, there is a need for immediate deployment of security forces to establish control and deter further violence. Provision of immediate assistance by the Kaduna State Government to the displaced civilians who have fled their homes.
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In addition, security forces could capitalize on the weakened state of both Ansaru and the bandits to deliver a decisive blow and restore stability to the region.
Meanwhile, security analyst believes that timely intervention by the government is essential to reassure the residents of Old Kuyallo and prevent potential defections to Ansaru.