Kebbi State, Nigeria (BN24) — Nigerian military forces have killed at least 80 armed bandits who attempted to infiltrate Kebbi State from Zamfara, in what officials are calling a major security breakthrough. The clash took place in Ngaski Local Government Area, following a strategic operation aimed at curbing banditry in the region.
The operation, which occurred on Friday and Saturday nights, is regarded as one of the most successful in recent months. Abdullahi Idris Zuru, Special Adviser to Governor Nasir Idris, confirmed the military’s success in a statement issued on Sunday. Zuru described the operation as a key victory in the state’s ongoing efforts to combat banditry, noting that it resulted from a targeted deployment of troops across Kebbi’s borders with Zamfara, Sokoto, and Niger states.
Governor Idris had previously requested additional military support to bolster security along these borders. The reinforcements came after credible intelligence reports suggested that armed bandits were attempting to cross into Kebbi. In response, troops were strategically positioned around Makurdi village, where the military engaged the bandits in intense gunfire exchanges. According to Abdulrahaman Usman, Director of Security in Kebbi, about 80 bandits were killed in the operation, with several others fleeing with gunshot wounds.
Usman also confirmed the recovery of several motorcycles used by the bandits, as well as two abducted civilians who were freed during the operation.
Governor Idris has been instrumental in securing resources to support the military’s efforts. He has donated 100 Hilux vehicles and 5,000 motorcycles to enhance troop mobility and operational effectiveness.
The Emir of Yauri, Zayyanu Muhammad, praised the military’s efforts and commended Governor Idris for his commitment to the safety and well-being of Kebbi’s citizens. “The people of Kebbi are proud of the sacrifices of our soldiers and the leadership of Governor Idris, whose efforts are restoring peace and hope to our communities,” Muhammad said.
Security sources also indicated that the recent successes have forced many bandit groups to retreat deeper into forests, signaling a weakening of their operations in the region.
The operation is part of a broader military initiative to strengthen security in northern Nigeria, which has seen ongoing clashes between the army and criminal groups. In a separate report, troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Borno and Yobe States killed more than 50 terrorists in a series of coordinated attacks last week.
The latest military successes in Kebbi highlight the growing effectiveness of the Nigerian military’s strategy to counter banditry and terrorism, offering a glimmer of hope for the restoration of stability in northern Nigeria.
