By Deborah Nnamdi
The Nigerian Army announced on Wednesday that its troops, engaged in anti-banditry operations in Niger State, successfully repelled a terrorist assault on Bangi community in Mariga Local Government Area, neutralizing numerous insurgents in the process.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Apolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the operation was conducted in coordination with the Nigerian Air Force’s air component. Over 300 armed bandits were intercepted and engaged in Kwanar Dutse Forest during a fierce confrontation.
“Tragically, seventeen courageous soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice during the battle, while ten others sustained varying degrees of injuries,” she said. “The injured personnel have been evacuated to a military medical facility, where they are receiving treatment and are currently in stable condition.”
Lt. Col. Anele revealed that the bandits were attempting to infiltrate Kwatankoro Forest under the cover of night, allegedly planning coordinated attacks on nearby communities or seeking refuge from ongoing military pressure in Zamfara State. Their movement was intercepted, resulting in a three-hour firefight with Nigerian troops.
Following the intense ground engagement, the Nigerian Air Force launched precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ retreat paths, delivering targeted bombardments on identified enemy positions. While the exact number of enemy casualties remains unconfirmed, multiple blood trails suggest the insurgents suffered heavy losses.
Lt. Col. Anele noted that operations are still ongoing to fully assess the extent of the damage inflicted on the terrorists.
In the wake of the incident, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, extended his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, hailing them as heroes who gave their lives in service to Nigeria. He also instructed military medical teams to provide the best possible care to the wounded and directed appropriate departments to support the families of the deceased.
“The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to securing our communities and protecting lives and property across the nation,” the statement emphasized. “Our freedom is non-negotiable. Alongside the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, other security agencies, and the resilient citizens of Nigeria, we will continue to work relentlessly to eliminate terrorism, banditry, and other criminal threats.”
The public is encouraged to support ongoing counter-terrorism efforts by providing timely and actionable intelligence to security agencies.
