Three Soldiers Killed As Troops Neutralise 45 Bandits In Katsina

Troops of the Nigerian Army have killed no fewer than 45 bandits during a fierce gun battle in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State, but lost a captain and two other soldiers in the process.

The incident occurred on Friday following an operation based on credible intelligence.

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 clash followed an earlier attack by bandits from Zamfara State who stormed Alhazawa village in Musawa Local Government Area on March 5 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 on March 5. They came to steal cattle,” the statement said.

However, community members and some repentant bandits reportedly resisted the attackers.

“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 bandits were said to have returned the following day in large numbers to retaliate. While moving towards Musawa LGA through Maidabino A ward, they reportedly encountered soldiers attached to the Army’s Forward Operating Base in Dan Ali.

“What followed was an intense and fierce battle. The Army successfully neutralised all 45 bandits,” the statement said.

Among those killed were two notorious bandit figures identified as Alti, the nephew and second-in-command to bandit leader Adamu Alieru, and another top bandit known as Damale.

Despite the victory, the operation resulted in casualties among the troops.

“However, the victory came at a cost. Captain Paul Hassan and two other soldiers lost their lives in the encounter,” the statement added.

The Katsina State Government commended the bravery of the soldiers involved in the operation.

“On behalf of the State Governor, Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda, the government and the people of Katsina, I commend the bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers. Their actions have saved countless lives and disrupted the operations of these dangerous criminals,” Mua’zu said.

He also extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and assured residents that security agencies would continue to pursue 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,” he added.