Security forces in Niger State have recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against banditry, killing over 50 armed bandits and rescuing kidnapped victims in Kumbashi village, Mariga Local Government Area.
The joint operation, carried out by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army on Tuesday, was launched after more than 300 armed men attempted to invade the community and attack a DSS camp stationed in the area.
Eyewitnesses said the bandits stormed the village in large numbers, but were met with fierce resistance from the security personnel. The ensuing gun battle lasted several hours, forcing the attackers to retreat after suffering heavy casualties, while many others escaped with gunshot wounds.
During the mop-up, troops successfully rescued seven kidnapped victims and recovered cattle rustled by the gunmen.
Reacting to the development, the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Mohammed Sarkin-Daji, lauded the gallantry of the security agencies, describing the operation as a “major morale booster” in the ongoing fight against banditry and terrorism.
“This victory is a clear demonstration of the renewed commitment of our security forces to secure lives and property. It sends a strong message that bandits and criminal elements will no longer find safe havens in Niger State,” he said.
The incident comes just days after DSS operatives arrested Abubakar Abba, the leader of Mahmuda, a notorious terror group, during a separate operation in Wawa, Niger State.
Residents of Kumbashi community expressed relief over the successful operation, noting that the joint offensive had restored confidence that security agencies are regaining control of areas long troubled by banditry.
Security analysts say the success underscores the importance of increased synergy among Nigeria’s security forces in tackling the growing menace of armed groups across the North-Central region.
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