The Nigerian Army has neutralised several armed bandits and rescued numerous captives during a coordinated military operation in parts of Niger State, security sources have confirmed.
The operation was carried out across Eriya and A’ure communities in Mariga Local Government Area, as well as the border areas of Magama LGA.
According to intelligence sources quoted by security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, on Thursday, the troops targeted bandits who had reportedly migrated from the Ibbi–Zugurma axis of Kainji National Park.
The criminal elements were said to be relocating from their former enclave in Ibbi Forest when they launched attacks on civilians along their route, killing several and abducting others.
Military sources indicated that the group was also transporting previously kidnapped victims at the time of the military offensive.
Troops drawn from the Warari Forward Operating Base (FOB) and Gulbin Boka FOB, both under the Kontagora Barracks command, engaged the bandits in a series of coordinated assaults.
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The encounter resulted in the neutralisation of a significant number of the terrorists, while several others reportedly sustained gunshot wounds as they fled, reducing their ability to regroup or mount further attacks.
The operation also led to the successful rescue of multiple captives, including men, women, and children, who had been held under harsh conditions.
The Military described the mission as a clear demonstration of operational superiority, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding civilian lives.
The Army has pledged to sustain operational pressure on bandit groups in the region.
Community members have also been urged to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information to support ongoing efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability.