At least five Nigerian soldiers and one police inspector were killed on Monday following an ambush by armed bandits in Zamfara State, once again highlighting the worsening security situation in the North-West region.
The victims included Inspector Aliyu Ibrahim of the 1 Police Mobile Force (PMF), Kaduna. The attack occurred when the security personnel were travelling through Kwatarkwashi Local Government Area of the state.
According to a press statement from the 1 PMF Kaduna, the officers were attached to Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFYM), a joint security operation set up to tackle banditry and other crimes in Zamfara and neighbouring states. The statement said the officers were on pass and were travelling from Bingi Kwatarkwashi to Gusau, the Zamfara State capital, when they were attacked.
The ambush reportedly took place around Gidan Goni village, along the Kwatarkwashi route. Armed bandits were said to have laid in wait before opening fire on the officers’ vehicle.
“On reaching Gidan Goni Village via Kwatarkwashi, officers were ambushed and attacked by armed bandits. Inspector Ibrahim and five soldiers were shot dead, while some yet-to-be-identified personnel sustained injuries,” the statement said.
The injured officers and the bodies of those killed were rushed to Yeriman Bakura Specialist Hospital in Gusau. Medical staff attended to the injured, while the remains of the deceased were deposited at the hospital’s morgue.
The statement further noted that arrangements were being made to move the body of Inspector Ibrahim to Kaduna State for burial. “The squadron is in touch with the police component of Operation Fansan Yamma in Gusau to convey the corpse to Kaduna for a befitting burial,” it added.
As of the time of filing this report, the identities of the injured personnel had not been officially released, and their condition was not immediately clear. Security authorities said further updates would be provided as investigations continue.
The latest attack is one of several deadly incidents involving armed bandits in Zamfara State in recent months. The state has been one of the worst hit by banditry in Nigeria, with frequent attacks on villages, highways, and security personnel.
Bandits operating in Zamfara and other parts of the North-West are known for kidnapping, cattle rustling, armed robbery, and killings. Many rural communities have been displaced due to repeated attacks, while travellers often face serious risks on major roads.
Operation Fansan Yamma was launched by the Federal Government as part of efforts to restore peace in the North-West. The operation involves the Nigerian Army, the Police, and other security agencies working together to confront armed groups and protect civilians.
Despite these efforts, attacks on both civilians and security forces have continued, raising concerns about the safety of personnel deployed to the region. Analysts say bandits have become more daring, often targeting security convoys and patrol teams.
Residents of Kwatarkwashi and nearby communities expressed fear following Monday’s ambush. Some locals said the area has experienced repeated attacks in recent times, forcing many people to limit movement, especially on rural roads.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said travellers now avoid certain routes due to fear of ambushes. “Once it is evening, nobody wants to move again. Even in the daytime, people are afraid because these bandits can strike at any time,” he said.
The killing of security personnel has also drawn concern from civil society groups and security experts. They say such attacks affect morale and show the urgent need for improved intelligence gathering, better equipment, and stronger community cooperation.
In recent years, the Federal Government has increased military operations in Zamfara, Kaduna, Katsina, and Sokoto states to combat banditry. These include air strikes, ground operations, and joint patrols with other security agencies.
The Zamfara State Government has also taken steps to address insecurity, including banning illegal mining and restricting movement in some areas. The state believes illegal mining has helped fund bandit activities.
The deaths of the five soldiers and Inspector Aliyu Ibrahim add to the growing list of security personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Many Nigerians have continued to call for better protection, welfare, and support for security officers risking their lives to protect the country.
As investigations continue into Monday’s ambush, security agencies are expected to intensify patrols in the affected area to prevent further attacks and track down those responsible.