The Coalition of CSOs in Katsina says the infiltration of informants leaking sensitive information to bandits within the security architecture is undermining security operations in the state.

The Chairman of the coalition, Abdulrahman Abdullahi, stated this in Katsina on Tuesday while addressing newsmen on the two-year assessment of the present Gov. Dikko Radda’s government.

According to him, the situation is a major security concern which is undermining the fight against banditry and other security challenges in the state.

Abdullahi further explained that the absence of a robust Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) mechanism, was preventing timely assessments and adjustments in security operations, affecting responsiveness and accountability of investments.

He said that in spite the notable efforts of the state government and other stakeholders, especially the creation of Community Watch Corps (C-Watch), banditry remained a significant issue in Katsina.

“There are growing concerns within the security architecture, in addition to reported sabotage from certain quarters undermining operational efficiency.

“C-Watch and other security operatives face shortages of vital operational tools, including Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC), Communication gadgets, surveillance equipment, and mobility support.

“In addition to these critical sectors, the coalition wishes to appreciate the demonstrated effort of this government to join Open Government Partnership (OGP).

“This will no doubt promote public participation in governance, accountability and transparency,” Abdullahi said.

He added that the introduction of the C-Watch was a major milestone in community policing, which had enhanced grassroots surveillance and local intelligence gathering, especially in frontline areas.

“The state government allocated huge amount of money towards security initiatives.

“These include the procurement of Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), Hilux vehicles, motorcycles surveillance drones and the establishment of a Joint Security Surveillance Centre.

“The administration had engaged over 10,000 community members through Ward and Local Government Security Committee.

“This strategy had improved intelligence gathering and fostered trust and collaboration between security agencies and communities.

“This has justified the foresight of the government in the establishment of the Ministry for Internal Security and Home Affairs to Coordinate the kinetic and non- kinetic security activities,” Abdullahi said.

He stated that the administration had saved the lives of many victims of banditry who might have otherwise lost their lives due to high cost of medications having received life- threatening gun shots from the heartless bandits.

“All these efforts were acknowledged at the 18th Africa Security Watch Awards in Doha, Qatar, where the governor was honoured as the ‘Best Security Conscious State Governor/Premier in West and Central Africa’,” according to him. (NAN)