Troops kill 80 bandits in major Kebbi border operation

Troops of the Nigerian military have killed no fewer than 80 armed bandits attempting to infiltrate Kebbi State from the Zamfara border, in what officials described as one of the most decisive counter-banditry operations in recent months.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Communication and Strategy, Abdullahi Idris Zuru, confirmed the development in a statement on Sunday, hailing the operation as a major breakthrough in the state’s ongoing fight against insecurity.

According to him, the success recorded in Ngaski Local Government Area followed the strategic deployment of fully equipped troops along Kebbi’s borders with Sokoto, Zamfara, and Niger States, as directed by Governor Nasir Idris.

Zuru said the governor had earlier requested additional military reinforcements to secure the borders, a move that has since resulted in the neutralisation of hundreds of bandits and the restoration of peace across several communities.

Citing intelligence reports, Zuru revealed that troops launched an ambush around Makurdi village, where soldiers engaged the bandits in intense gun battles between Friday and Saturday nights.

“About 80 bandits were neutralised, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds,” said the state’s Director of Security, Abdulrahman Usman. He added that dozens of motorcycles were recovered and two abducted victims rescued during the operation.

He noted that the collaboration between the Kebbi State Government and security agencies—especially the Nigerian Army—has been instrumental in sustaining gains against banditry.

Governor Idris has reportedly provided 100 Hilux vehicles and 5,000 motorcycles to boost the mobility and response capacity of security forces across the state.

Reacting to the success, the Emir of Yauri, Dr. Zayyanu Muhammad, commended the gallantry of the troops and praised Governor Idris for his unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property.

“The people of Kebbi are proud of the sacrifices of our soldiers and the leadership of Governor Idris, whose efforts are restoring peace and hope to our communities,” the Emir said.

Security sources said the latest offensive has forced several bandit groups to retreat deeper into neighbouring forests, making Kebbi increasingly unsafe for criminal elements.

In a related development, PUNCH Online earlier reported that troops of Operation Hadin Kai killed over 50 terrorists and repelled multiple coordinated attacks on military bases in Borno and Yobe States last week.