Nigerian security forces have neutralised at least 45 armed bandits near Kuchi town in Munya Local Government Area of Niger State in a coordinated operation on Monday.
The joint operation, carried out by the Department of State Services (DSS) and military tactical units, successfully intercepted the bandits who were reportedly planning coordinated attacks on communities around Kuchi.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, the neutralized bandits were believed to be loyal to notorious terrorist leader Dogo Gide.
Details of the Operation
Security sources revealed that the insurgents, numbering over 100, had mobilized from Bilbis Forest in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State and various hideouts in Kaduna State before they were intercepted.
"The security forces engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle at the outskirts of Kuchi, resulting in the elimination of no fewer than 45 of the assailants, with several others escaping with gunshot wounds," Makama reported, citing an anonymous source.
The operation also led to the recovery of multiple motorcycles, arms, and ammunition from the bandits, demonstrating the effectiveness of the coordinated security response.
Casualties and Aftermath
Despite the successful operation, five DSS operatives sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire. They are currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed facility.
This operation represents a significant blow to bandit operations in the North Central region, particularly those affiliated with Dogo Gide, who has been linked to numerous attacks and kidnappings across northwestern Nigeria.
The successful interception before the planned attack demonstrates improved intelligence gathering and coordination between Nigeria's security agencies in the ongoing fight against banditry and terrorism in the northern regions.
Local residents in Munya Local Government Area have expressed relief following the operation, though security remains heightened in the area as authorities monitor for potential retaliatory attacks.
