Troops of the Nigerian Army have killed 12 suspected bandits during a fierce exchange of gunfire at Mabai village in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State.
According to intelligence sources quoted by security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, on Tuesday, the confrontation occurred shortly after a peace meeting was held at Kakumi village in Bakori Local Government Area.
Reports indicate that the armed bandits were moving close to a military base in Mabai when they encountered troops on patrol, leading to a heavy shootout. The soldiers repelled the attack and neutralised 12 of the assailants.
Two soldiers reportedly sustained gunshot injuries during the encounter and were evacuated to the Katsina Medical Centre for treatment.
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Security operatives have since restored normalcy in the area, while troops have intensified patrols and surveillance operations to prevent further attacks.
The incident marks another success in the military’s ongoing counter-banditry operations across Katsina and other parts of the North-West region.