Watch out for fleeing armed bandits, Bello tells Niger residents

Governor Abubakar Sani-Bello of Niger state has enjoined citizens to keep vigil and be wary of some fleeing armed bandits from Zamfara and Kaduna states, who might want to seek refuge in the state, especially along the areas designated as grazing reserves.
Bello stated this at the weekend in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Jibrin Ndace in Minna.
He said that the recent pounding of some hideouts of the armed bandits by the security agencies would certainly pose a serious challenge to other states adjoining states, especially Niger, as they are likely to spread all over the country and regrettably mix with and disguise as good people.
Sani-Bello urged citizens to be watchful and not to harbour unknown strangers, stressing that security issue is a collective responsibility of everyone.
He said, “We are not unaware of reports that some of these fleeing miscreants are finding their way to some states far and near, therefore, it is our collective duty as citizens to keep our eyes open and report any suspicious character within our midst.” The governor disclosed that the state government has proactively directed and mobilized all the security apparatus in the state to intensify search everywhere especially in those areas identified as ‘hotspot’ and or rural areas in which they might want to seek refuge.
He also reiterated his appeal to traditional rulers, religious leaders and community leaders to be watchful, identify and, if possible, isolate anyone who has link directly or indirectly with criminals in the state and report to appropriate authority.
He commended the officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for their renewed attacks and gallantry against the bandits.