Defence Chief orders troops to shoot terrorists, bandits on sight

The Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, has directed military personnel and other security operatives to shoot terrorists, bandits and other armed non-state actors on sight, warning that no operative should wait for further authorisation before engaging criminals in the course of duty.

Musa gave the directive on Wednesday in Sokoto during the distribution of 62 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and motorcycles donated by the Sokoto State Government to security agencies to strengthen operations against insecurity.

Addressing troops, the defence chief said security personnel deployed to operational areas already had the authority to carry out their responsibilities and should act decisively against armed criminals.

“You are deployed and responsible for carrying out your duties and nothing short of what is expected of you to do while on the field of operations,” he said.

He warned that any operative who failed to confront terrorists or bandits under the excuse of awaiting orders would face severe consequences.

“No operative on the field should hesitate to go by this renewed order. Any operative who failed under the pretext of not receiving an order will be treated as a bandit,” Musa said.

While urging troops to be resolute, the defence chief stressed the need for professionalism during operations, reminding personnel to protect civilians and avoid harassment of local communities.

“Do not harass the community but ensure their protection during operations,” he added.

The security assets, branded Operation Ƙare Ta’addanci, were donated by the administration of Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu as part of activities marking the third anniversary of his administration.