Army Eliminates 45 Bandits in Katsina Gun Battle, Loses Captain, 2 Soldiers
Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised at least 45 bandits during a fierce gun battle in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State, although a captain and two soldiers were killed in the encounter.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mua’zu.
According to the statement, the operation was launched following credible intelligence gathered by security agencies regarding the movement and activities of bandits in the area.
Among those killed in the operation were two notorious bandit figures identified as Alti, a nephew and second-in-command to the infamous bandit leader Adamu Alieru, and another senior bandit commander known as Damale.
The security crisis began on March 5 when bandits from neighbouring Zamfara State, armed with sophisticated weapons and riding motorcycles, attacked Alhazawa village in Musawa Local Government Area in an attempt to rustle cattle.
However, local residents, supported by repentant bandits in the community, resisted the attack. Four of the attackers were killed during the confrontation, while all the stolen cattle were successfully recovered and returned to their owners.
Read Also:
Angered by the setback, the bandits reportedly returned in larger numbers on March 6, seeking revenge. While advancing toward Musawa Local Government Area through Maidabino A Ward, the criminals encountered troops stationed at the Nigerian Army’s Forward Operating Base in Dan Ali.
The encounter triggered an intense gun battle between the soldiers and the bandits. During the clash, troops successfully neutralised all 45 of the assailants.
Despite the tactical success, the military suffered casualties, with Captain Paul Hassan and two other soldiers losing their lives during the operation.
Commending the troops for their bravery, the Katsina State Government described their sacrifice as heroic and crucial in safeguarding communities from criminal elements.
“On behalf of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda and the people of Katsina State, we commend the courage and sacrifice of our soldiers. Their actions have saved countless lives and disrupted the operations of these dangerous criminals,” the statement read.
The government also extended its condolences to the families of the fallen military personnel.
Authorities reaffirmed that security forces remain on high alert and will continue sustained operations to track down and eliminate bandits threatening peace and stability across the state.
By PRNigeria
