Residents of Mansur in Alkeleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State have returned to their homes after months of displacement, following a successful military clearance operation that restored calm to the community.
The return, which took place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, was marked by celebrations as men, women, and children were seen singing and dancing back into the village after nearly two months away.
Mansur community had been deserted since February 26, 2026, when armed terrorists reportedly invaded the area, forcing inhabitants to flee for safety. Since then, homes were abandoned and farmlands left uncultivated.
The breakthrough came through Operation BUGUN KARKANDA III, a coordinated military clearance mission directed by Army Headquarters and executed by the 33 Artillery Brigade. The operation was followed by Operation WUTAN DAJI, aimed at consolidating gains and flushing out remaining terrorist elements from their hideouts.
According to the Army, the operations led to the clearance of several forested and previously occupied areas, including Dajin Madam Forest in Plateau State, Kumbodoro Forest in Taraba State, Yankari Game Reserve, Bogwas, and Rimi in Bauchi State, as well as Odere Forest, Shirnagol, Wanka, and Kukarlwa in Plateau State. Kumbodoro town and Angwan Jauro Sule in Taraba State were also secured.
Following the successful operations, Mansur and other liberated communities were transitioned into a consolidation phase, during which cleared areas are handed over to relevant security agencies and government institutions to ensure sustained peace, law enforcement, and the safe return of displaced persons.
In Mansur, returning residents were seen inspecting damaged homes and clearing overgrown compounds, as joy replaced months of fear and uncertainty.
Community leaders commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for what they described as timely intervention that restored peace and enabled the safe return of displaced families, noting that the development marks a new beginning for the community.
The Army confirmed that patrols will continue in the area to sustain security and prevent any resurgence of criminal activity.
