Troops of the Nigerian Army, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), and local volunteer groups have repelled a large-scale bandit attack in Niger State, killing several assailants.
The attempted attack, which occurred on Tuesday, targeted Bagna and Erena communities in Shiroro Local Government Area, where more than 300 armed bandits were reportedly advancing in what security sources described as a potential large-scale assault.
A credible security source disclosed that the operation was executed following actionable intelligence on the planned হামlet, enabling security forces and local volunteers to set up an ambush ahead of the attackers’ arrival.
“Over 300 bandits, armed and on motorcycles, were advancing towards the communities. Security operatives and vigilantes, acting on credible intelligence, ambushed them. Scores were killed, while many others fled towards the Makuba and Allawa axis,” the source said.
The source noted that improved collaboration between security agencies and local volunteer groups has significantly strengthened frontline defence and helped close security gaps in vulnerable communities.
Residents of the affected areas commended the swift response of the joint forces, describing the intervention as decisive in averting what could have been a major disaster.
“We are very happy. We thank the joint security forces for protecting us,” a resident said.
