A joint team of security forces and local vigilantes on Thursday, September 18, repelled an attack by armed bandits in the Indarai forest, located in Zugu District of Kebbi State.
The operation, which was carried out under Operation FANSAN YANMA, led to the death of one of the bandits and the recovery of large herds of cows that had earlier been rustled from local residents. However, one vigilante member, identified as Nura Tela, was fatally injured in the exchange of gunfire and died while being taken to the hospital.
According to reports, the incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. when a large group of armed bandits stormed the Indarai forest and stole several cows belonging to villagers in the area. The swift response of troops, working in collaboration with vigilantes and other security agencies, helped prevent what could have been a major attack.
Eyewitnesses said the sound of heavy gunfire sent panic across nearby communities, but the joint team stood their ground and forced the attackers to retreat. One of the bandits was killed during the confrontation, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds into nearby bushes, reportedly heading towards Zamfara State.
The rustled cows were safely recovered and are now in the custody of security authorities, pending identification and return to their rightful owners.
In the aftermath of the attack, security patrols have been intensified across Zugu District and surrounding areas. Military and police teams have been moving through the forest and nearby villages to ensure that the fleeing bandits do not regroup or return to launch another attack.
Kebbi State, like many other states in the North-West region, has been grappling with cases of armed banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling. These criminal activities have disrupted farming, displaced thousands of residents, and put heavy pressure on local security systems.
The state government has often relied on joint security operations, including the use of local vigilantes, to complement efforts by the Nigerian Army and Police. Though these efforts have recorded some success, communities remain vulnerable to sudden attacks, especially in border areas close to Zamfara State, which has been identified as a hotspot for bandit operations.
The death of the brave vigilante, Nura Tela, has drawn sympathy from residents, with many praising the efforts of local security volunteers who continue to risk their lives to protect their communities.
