Troops of the Nigerian Army have killed five notorious bandit leaders during a military operation in Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The operation was carried out on May 1 by soldiers from 1 Brigade during a patrol around Mai Kwanugga village.
According to a statement by the brigade’s spokesperson, Captain Suleiman Omale, the troops met a large group of armed terrorists who were attacking villagers and burning homes. A fierce gun battle followed, leading to the deaths of several bandits, including the leaders identified as Auta Jijji, Dankali, Sagidi, Kachallah Rijaji, and Kachallah Suza.
The troops, supported by Quick Response Force and Special Forces, also recovered several weapons from the scene. Items recovered include four AK-47 rifles, a PKT machine gun, two RPG launchers, six RPG bombs, and dozens of rounds of ammunition.
However, two civilians were hit by stray bullets during the shootout. The army said it is monitoring the situation and continuing clearance operations in the area.
In a separate incident on the same day, troops from Combat Team 2 helped disperse a protest by angry residents in Dayau village, Kaura Namoda LGA. The villagers had blocked a major road to express frustration over recent bandit attacks. The army cleared the road without violence and normal activities have since resumed.
Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Timothy Opurum, praised the soldiers for their bravery and professionalism. He assured residents of the military’s commitment to restoring peace and urged them to support security efforts by giving useful information and avoiding violence.
