Bauchi govt raises alarm over suspicion of Boko Haram infiltration

The Bauchi State Government has raised an alarm over the suspicion that Boko Haram insurgents from neighboring Yobe State have infiltrated four local government areas of the State.

The Secretary to the Bauchi State Government (SSG), Alhaji Sabiu Baba, disclosed this at a press conference on Monday.

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He listed Zaki, Gamawa, Darazo and Dambam as the local government areas bordering Yobe state, saying the level of suspicion became high following the attempted vandalisation of telecommunication masts in Gamawa.

Baba said security operatives arrested five persons in connection with the incident, adding that already the state government has beefed up security around the neighboring communities.

He said the state government has identified some security threats associated with influx of people into the state from Yobe where Boko Haram has been wreaking havoc.

Baba said Governor Bala Mohammed has provided the needed support to security operatives to intensify patrol and surveillance, especially border communities with Yobe.

On the issue of the displaced persons, Baba assured that the state government will work with the affected communities to identify internally displaced persons so as to provide them with urgent support to alleviate their sufferings.

In his remark at the briefing, Bauchi State Commissioner of Police, Sylvester Abiodun Alabi, assured that the police will partner with sister security agencies to ensure security of lives and property.

He equally appeal to residents to give relevant information to security agents on activities of criminals and avoid giving cover to evil-minded people.

Editor’s note: This story has been updated in view of fresh facts. We had erroneously reported that some communities were raided by the insurgents, but we have since realised that the SSG was quoted of context.