Troops crush bandits in Kano, 19 neutralised in fierce gun battle

Troops crush bandits in Kano, 19 neutralised in fierce gun battle

In a decisive show of force, troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation MESA, successfully repelled a bandits’ attack in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State, safeguarding vulnerable communities from criminal incursions.

The operation, spearheaded by personnel of the 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, was launched following a tip-off about bandit movements around Ungwan Tudu, Ungwan Tsamiya, and Goron Dutse at approximately 5 p.m. on November 1. According to a statement by Capt. Babatunde Zubairu, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, the troops—supported by other security agencies—engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to retreat.

“It was confirmed that the bandits, who arrived on motorcycles, sustained several casualties during the encounter,” Zubairu stated.

Troops stationed at Tsaure community intercepted the bandits, resulting in an exchange of fire that led to the recovery of several motorcycles and two mobile phones. Nineteen bandits were neutralised, while two soldiers and a local vigilante tragically lost their lives in the operation.

Further operations are ongoing in the area to prevent cattle rustling and other criminal activities. Brigadier-General Ahmed Tukur, Commander of the 3 Brigade, reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in Kano State, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.

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Kidnap Victims Rescued in Kogi State

In a related development, troops of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oguma in Kogi State, rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ransom money intended for their release.

The operation, carried out on Sunday, followed credible intelligence on kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis. Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, confirmed the rescue in Lokoja.

Troops launched a patrol to Achigili Forest to intercept the bandits but came under fire en route. In the ensuing gunfight, the soldiers overpowered the criminals, who fled into the forest with gunshot wounds, abandoning the victims and N3.8 million in ransom money.

The victims were debriefed to assist further operations and are currently in safe custody pending handover to appropriate authorities. The recovered cash was returned to them.

Lieutenant Abdullahi reiterated the Army’s unwavering resolve to protect lives and property, calling on the public to support security efforts by providing timely and credible information.

Security Forces Stand Firm

These operations underscore the Nigerian Army’s proactive stance in combating banditry and kidnapping across the country. Citizens are encouraged to remain alert and collaborate with security agencies to ensure lasting peace and safety.

Troops crush bandits in Kano, 19 neutralised in fierce gun battle