80 Bandits Slain As Soldiers Unleash Deadly Firepower In Kebbi–Zamfara Border Clash

Massive military onslaught restores calm as Governor Idris’ security strategy pays off

In what security analysts have described as a decisive and blood-soaked victory against terror gangs, troops of the Nigerian military have eliminated no fewer than 80 armed bandits who attempted to invade Kebbi State from the volatile Zamfara border.

The fierce encounter, which took place over the weekend in Ngaski Local Government Area, marks one of the most successful anti-banditry operations in the Northwest in recent months.

According to a statement by Abdullahi Zuru, Special Adviser to the Kebbi State Governor on Communication and Strategy, the operation was the outcome of a strategic deployment of heavily armed troops along the state’s borders with Sokoto, Zamfara, and Niger, on the orders of Governor Nasir Idris.

Zuru said Governor Idris had earlier sought and secured additional military reinforcements to tighten security around Kebbi’s porous borders, a move that has led to the elimination of hundreds of bandits and the gradual restoration of peace in affected communities.

He revealed that credible intelligence alerted security forces to a mass movement of bandits around Makurdi village, prompting a preemptive strike. What followed was a fierce two-night gun duel on Friday and Saturday that left the attackers overwhelmed by superior military firepower.

> “About 80 bandits were neutralized, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds,”
said Director of Security, Abdulrahaman Usman, adding that troops recovered dozens of motorcycles, sophisticated weapons, and rescued two kidnapped victims during the offensive.

Zuru emphasized that the close coordination between the Kebbi State Government and the Nigerian Army has been central to the state’s steady gains in the war against banditry.

He recalled that Governor Idris had recently donated 100 Hilux vans and 5,000 motorcycles to boost troop mobility and enhance rapid response capacity across the state.

Reacting to the development, the Emir of Yauri, Dr. Zayyanu Muhammad, commended the gallant soldiers for their bravery and hailed the governor’s unwavering resolve to protect lives and property.

> “The people of Kebbi are proud of the sacrifices of our soldiers and the leadership of Governor Idris, whose relentless efforts are restoring peace and hope to our communities,”
the Emir declared.

Security insiders disclosed that the latest onslaught has forced several terror cells to flee deeper into neighbouring forests, indicating that Kebbi State is fast becoming a hostile ground for criminal elements.

The successful operation, observers say, underscores a renewed military momentum in the Northwest and strengthens public confidence in the government’s commitment to crushing banditry once and for all.

(Source: The PUNCH News online)