Nigerian security forces have neutralized at least 45 armed bandits in a coordinated operation near Kuchi town in Munya Local Government Area of Niger State. The operation, carried out jointly by the Department of State Services (DSS) and military tactical units, took place in the early hours of Monday.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, the bandits were believed to be loyal to notorious terrorist leader Dogo Gide. The armed group was reportedly en route to launch coordinated attacks on communities around Kuchi when they were intercepted by the security forces.

Details of the Operation

"The insurgents, estimated to be over 100 in number, had mobilized from Bilbis Forest in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara and other hideouts in Kaduna State," Makama stated, citing a source who requested anonymity.

The security forces engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle at the outskirts of Kuchi town, resulting in the elimination of no fewer than 45 of the assailants. Several others reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds.

During the operation, multiple motorcycles, arms, and ammunition were recovered from the bandits. However, five DSS operatives sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire and are currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed medical facility.

Rising Insecurity in Northern Nigeria

This operation comes amid growing concerns about banditry and terrorism in Nigeria's northern states. Niger State, along with neighboring Kaduna, Zamfara, and Katsina states, has experienced numerous attacks on rural communities in recent years.

The successful interception of this large group of bandits represents a significant achievement for Nigeria's security forces in their ongoing efforts to combat rural banditry and protect vulnerable communities in the region.

Local authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the operation, but security analysts suggest that such coordinated efforts between different security agencies could be key to addressing the security challenges facing the country's northern regions.