Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 223 Light Battalion, Zuru, have successfully repelled a large-scale attack by over 400 armed bandits on Ribah town in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The assault, which occurred on Wednesday, was met with a swift and decisive response from the troops, who engaged the attackers in a prolonged gun battle. Eyewitnesses likened the encounter to a battlefield, describing how the army’s superior firepower and tactical advantage forced the heavily armed bandits to retreat in disarray.
Military sources confirmed that several of the attackers were neutralised, while many others escaped with gunshot wounds, abandoning a significant 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, commended the troops for their professionalism and courage during the operation.
“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 lauded the Nigerian Air Force for its critical role in the operation, noting that aerial support inflicted heavy casualties on the 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 sources indicate that the attackers may be linked to the same criminal syndicate responsible for recent violence in neighbouring Niger State. Their attempt to expand operations into Kebbi was decisively thwarted.
In a related development, troops from Dukku Barracks also repelled an attempted cattle rustling operation in Mera, Augie Local Government Area. The assailants, identified as Lakurawa bandits, were forced to abandon their mission and flee empty-handed after encountering stiff resistance from the military.
Reacting to the twin victories, Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris praised the gallantry of the security forces and reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving 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 resulted in the rescue of six abducted persons and the recovery of stolen livestock—further signaling significant progress in the ongoing fight against banditry in the region.
Residents of Ribah and Mera expressed deep relief and gratitude, urging authorities to maintain the current tempo in order to prevent a resurgence of attacks.
