Operation Python Dance will combat stockpiling of arms- 3Div

The 3 Armoured Division of the Nigerian Army, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment has flagged-off Operation Python Dance III – Egwu Eke saying it is conceptualised to combat prevailing security challenges such as stockpiling of arms by criminal groups, formation of militias and violence induced by political party activities.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC), Major General Nuhu Angbazo gave reasons for the operation during the flag-off of the exercise at the Rafiki village, Dutse Kura of Bassa local government area of Plateau State.

General Angbazo said the exercise is expected to cover the division’s areas of responsibility which includes; Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe Adamawa and Taraba states adding that; “the exercise is in line with the Army Headquarters directives and it is aimed at reassuring the general public of the federal government’s commitment at protecting lives and properties of Nigerian citizens by building confidence before, during and after the 2019 general elections.”

He added that the exercise will be conducted in collaboration with sister services as well as Para-military agencies to checkmate all security threats such as terrorism, militancy, kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities of dissident groups.

In his remark, Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong described the exercise as timely coming at a time when the nation was faced with numerous security challenges.

Lalong who was represented by the state commissioner for Mineral Development, Ezekiel Daju stated that,” It is our common belief that with this exercise and other security related operations that are taking place across the country, peace and security will return not only to Plateau State but to the entire country.”