The Nigerian Army has neutralised 45 bandits during a fierce confrontation with armed criminals in Danmusa Local Government Area, dealing a significant blow to bandit groups operating in parts of Katsina State.
The encounter followed credible intelligence gathered by security personnel tracking the movement of bandits across the area. Among those killed during the operation was Alti, a nephew and close lieutenant of the notorious bandit leader Adamu Alieru as well as another senior bandit identified as Damale.
Information released by the Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs indicated that the incident was linked to an earlier attack carried out by armed bandits in Alhazawa village on March 5.
The attackers, who were said to have crossed into the state from neighbouring Zamfara State, stormed the community on motorcycles and armed with sophisticated weapons in an attempt to rustle cattles belonging to residents.
The attempt was resisted by members of the community, supported by repentant bandits assisting local vigilante efforts. During the confrontation, four of the attackers were killed while the rustled cattle were recovered and returned to their rightful owners.
Security sources said the bandits later regrouped and returned the following day in large numbers in what appeared to be a revenge mission after their failed attempt. While advancing towards communities in Musawa Local Government Area through the Maidabino axis, the bandits encountered troops stationed at the Army’s Forward Operating Base in Dan Ali.
A fierce gun battle ensued between the soldiers and the armed bandits. Military sources said the troops responded decisively, overpowering the attackers after an intense exchange of fire. At the end of the operation, 45 bandits were confirmed killed. However, the military also recorded casualties as Captain Paul Hassan and two other soldiers lost their lives during the encounter.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mua’zu, commended the bravery and sacrifice of the troops, while Governor Dikko Umaru Radda extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting security operations aimed at restoring lasting peace across Katsina State.
