Nigerian Army troops have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by armed bandits in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, averting what could have been a deadly raid on local communities.
According to military sources, the incident occurred late Tuesday night when a large group of armed men attempted to storm villages near the Zuru axis. Swift intelligence response and combat readiness by the troops stationed in the region led to a fierce gunfight that forced the assailants to flee.
“The timely intervention of our troops prevented the loss of civilian lives and protected critical infrastructure,” said Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, spokesperson for the Nigerian Army. “Several weapons were recovered, and efforts are underway to track fleeing attackers.”
Eyewitnesses reported heavy gunfire during the encounter but confirmed that residents have since returned to their homes under military protection.
This latest operation comes amid heightened concerns over rising banditry in Nigeria’s northwest, where criminal gangs have targeted rural communities for ransom, livestock theft, and displacement.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi commended the army for its rapid response and vowed continued collaboration with security agencies to ensure long-term peace in the area.
“We will not allow our communities to be overrun by criminals,” the governor said in a statement. “Kebbi is not a safe haven for bandits.”
Security analysts say the army’s success highlights the growing importance of real-time intelligence and local collaboration in combating insurgent activities in rural areas.
The Nigerian military has recently intensified counter-banditry campaigns under Operation Hadarin Daji, covering parts of Kebbi, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Katsina states.
