Heavy Security Presence Deployed in Alkaleri as Police Move to Crush Kidnapping, Banditry

By Auwal Ahmad Umar

The Nigeria Police Force in Bauchi State has intensified security operations in parts of Alkaleri Local Government Area following renewed threats, assuring residents that authorities have taken firm control of the situation.

Speaking at a press briefing in Bauchi on Thursday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, revealed that a comprehensive security review prompted the large-scale deployment of personnel to Gwana, Digare, and Kafin Duguri communities.

He explained that the operation, carried out in synergy with other security agencies, was strategically designed to dismantle networks involved in kidnapping and armed banditry that have resurfaced in the affected areas.

According to him, the border settlements have historically experienced security challenges due to the movement of criminal groups across neighbouring states. To counter this, security forces have reinforced patrol teams and upgraded operational equipment to strengthen their response capacity and ensure sustained stability.

Habib also addressed concerns surrounding Mansur town, where some residents reportedly relocated over fears of possible attacks. He clarified that the town remains secure and has not been impacted by incidents recorded in nearby Gwana District.

The police spokesperson underscored the ongoing collaboration between the Police, the Nigerian Military, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other relevant agencies, noting that the Bauchi State Government continues to provide critical support for security operations.

He added that the joint efforts are already producing encouraging outcomes, with visible improvements in safety across the affected communities.

While reaffirming the command’s resolve to rid Alkaleri of criminal elements, Habib appealed to members of the public to support security agencies by sharing credible information and promptly reporting suspicious activities. He assured residents that informants’ identities would be treated with utmost confidentiality.

“The message is clear: there will be no hiding place for criminals in Alkaleri,” he stated, urging citizens to carry on with their lawful daily activities without panic.

Healing Hearts: Young Women in Dass Embrace Therapy to Reclaim Their Emotional Wellbeing

A growing number of young women between the ages of 20 and 24 in the Dass Local Government Area of Bauchi State are taking bold steps to prioritise their mental health by enrolling in interpersonal growth therapy sessions.

The initiative, facilitated by Plan International with support from Global Affairs Canada, is providing a safe and structured environment for participants to openly discuss and confront emotional struggles affecting their lives.

During one of the recent sessions held on Thursday, several participants shared deeply personal experiences, revealing how life-altering events such as divorce, heartbreak, the loss of parents or children, infertility, and difficulties adjusting to new environments had taken a toll on their mental wellbeing.

One of the beneficiaries, Hasiya Aliyu, recounted how losing both her parents within a six-month span plunged her into emotional distress.

“After my parents passed away within such a short period, everything changed for me,” she said. “I felt empty and disconnected from the world. I stopped interacting with people and kept to myself.”

Another participant, 24-year-old Fatima Jibrin, spoke about the emotional trauma she endured after her fiancé of seven years ended their relationship and married someone else.

“That experience broke me completely,” she said. “For four years, I avoided any form of relationship. When I heard about these sessions, I decided to give it a try. It was here that I realised I had been battling depression and needed help.”

She added that the weekly meetings, where participants openly share their experiences under professional guidance, have played a significant role in her recovery.

“Our facilitator created a comfortable space for us to speak without fear. The support I received has transformed me. Today, I encourage other young women facing similar struggles to join the program,” she explained.

According to Mohammed Nasir, Senior Project Coordinator at Plan International, the therapy sessions were introduced four years ago across selected local government areas under the Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (ASPIRE) project.

He noted that the program currently operates in several LGAs, including Bauchi, Dass, Toro, Ningi, Jama’are, Darazo, Misau, Katagum, and Gamawa.

Nasir explained that participants are organised into groups that undergo an eight-week, structured program designed to build confidence, encourage open communication, and strengthen emotional resilience.

He added that trained facilitators guide the sessions and provide support to help participants address personal challenges in a healthy and constructive manner.

The initiative, he said, is focused on improving the emotional wellbeing of young women in the state while equipping them with coping skills to navigate life’s challenges with renewed strength and confidence.