Army foils bandit attack in Kebbi

The Nigerian Army’s 223 Light Battalion, Zuru, successfully repelled a large-scale attack by over 400 armed bandits on Ribah town in the Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The operation, which took place on Wednesday, saw the troops respond swiftly to the invasion, engaging the attackers in a fierce gun duel that lasted several hours. Eyewitnesses described the scene as a battlefield, with the superior firepower and tactics of the army ultimately forcing the bandits to retreat in disarray.

Military sources confirmed that many of the bandits were neutralised during the exchange, while others fled with injuries, abandoning a cache of weapons and ammunition. The town has since been secured, and normalcy restored.

The Director of Security at the Kebbi State Cabinet Office, AbdulRahman Zagga, on Thursday, praised the courage and professionalism of the soldiers involved.

The troops displayed uncommon bravery. Their swift response and combat efficiency turned what could have been a major disaster into a remarkable victory,” he said.

Zagga also applauded the Nigerian Air Force for its timely intervention and aerial support, which he said inflicted heavy casualties on fleeing bandits and disrupted their escape routes.

“The situation is now fully under control. The people of Ribah can breathe a sigh of relief thanks to the coordinated efforts of our security forces,” he added.

Intelligence reports suggest the attackers were part of the same criminal syndicate responsible for recent attacks in Niger State. Their attempt to extend their terror campaign into Kebbi was decisively thwarted.

In a related development, troops from the Dukku Barracks repelled another bandit assault on Mera in the Augie Local Government Area. The attackers, identified as Lakurawa bandits, attempted to rustle cattle but met stiff resistance from the Nigerian Army, which forced them to flee empty-handed.

Reacting to the successful operations, Governor Nasir Idris commended the gallantry of the security personnel and reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening security across the state.

“These victories are proof that with sustained support and collaboration, our security agencies can defeat banditry and restore peace to our communities,” the governor stated.

Just two days earlier, a joint security operation in the same Danko Wasagu axis led to the rescue of six abducted persons and the recovery of stolen livestock, further highlighting the momentum gained in the fight against insecurity in the region.

Residents of Ribah and Mera have expressed relief and gratitude, calling on authorities to maintain the current tempo to prevent future attacks.