Troops kill 45 bandits in fierce gun battle in Niger State

At least 45 bandits were neutralised on Friday evening in Iburu village, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, as Nigerian Army troops, in collaboration with hybrid forces and supported by the Department of State Services (DSS), launched a coordinated offensive against terrorists threatening the region.

Security sources confirmed that the DSS had intercepted credible intelligence indicating that heavily armed terrorists on multiple motorcycles were advancing to launch attacks on Iburu and nearby villages. The alert prompted immediate mobilization of soldiers on standby.

The ensuing gun duel, described as intense, resulted in the deaths of no fewer than 45 terrorists. Residents of Iburu village reportedly counted over 40 corpses believed to be those of the attackers. Several motorcycles used by the bandits were also destroyed during the firefight.

However, the operation was not without losses on the side of the security forces. Two members of the hybrid support forces were killed in action, while four others sustained serious gunshot wounds and are currently receiving medical attention at a government hospital in Minna, the state capital.

The successful operation marks a significant blow to terrorist networks operating in the area and reinforces ongoing joint efforts to secure Niger State and its environs.