Troops of the Nigerian Army have killed at least 45 suspected bandits during a fierce gun battle in Katsina State, but the operation also claimed the lives of an Army captain and two other soldiers.
The incident occurred in Danmusa Local Government Area following an operation based on credible intelligence.
Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mua’zu, disclosed the development in a statement made available to journalists in Katsina.
According to the commissioner, the operation was launched after security agencies gathered intelligence about bandits operating in the area.
“Among those killed was Alti, the nephew and second-in-command to the notorious bandit leader, Adamu Alieru. Also eliminated was another top bandit known as Damale,” Mua’zu said.
He explained that the confrontation was linked to an earlier attack when armed bandits from Zamfara State stormed Alhazawa village in Musawa Local Government Area to rustle cattle.
“The clash began when bandits from Zamfara State, armed with sophisticated weapons and riding on motorcycles, attacked Alhazawa village in Musawa LGA. They came to steal cattle,” the statement read.
However, the attack was resisted by residents and some repentant bandits who joined the defence of the community.
“Community members and repentant bandits from the area fought back. Four bandits were killed, and all the rustled cows were recovered and returned to their owners,” Mua’zu added.
The commissioner said the bandits later returned in larger numbers to launch a revenge attack but ran into troops stationed at the Army’s Forward Operating Base in Dan Ali while heading towards Musawa LGA near Maidabino ‘A’ Ward.
“What followed was an intense and fierce battle. The Army successfully neutralised all 45 bandits,” he stated.
Despite the success of the operation, the Army lost three personnel during the encounter.
“However, the victory came at a cost. Captain Paul Hassan and two other soldiers lost their lives in the encounter,” the statement noted.
Mua’zu said the Katsina State Government commended the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers who confronted the bandits.
“On behalf of the State Governor, Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda, the government and the people of Katsina commend the bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers. Their actions have saved countless lives and disrupted the operations of these dangerous criminals,” he said.
He also extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and assured residents that security forces would continue operations against criminal elements in the state.
“Our security forces remain alert and will continue to pursue these criminals wherever they go. We will not rest until peace is fully restored to every corner of Katsina State,” the commissioner added.
