Bandits operating in Tegina, Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State, have launched a surprise attack on a military base, leaving two soldiers wounded.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, and according to reports, one bandit was killed in the ensuing exchange of gunfire.
The attack is just the latest in a series of incidents plaguing the troubled LGA, which has been plagued by bandit attacks that have prevented farmers from tending to their crops.
The Chairman of the Rafi Local Government Area, Ayuba Katako, confirmed the incident and expressed his condolences to the affected soldiers.
Katako praised the efforts of the military, police, and vigilantes in their efforts to maintain peace and security in the state and called for patience, support, and prayers to overcome the menace of insecurity.
He also decried the continued attacks on security operatives and urged citizens to cooperate with them in their efforts.
Meanwhile, troops from Operation Whirl Punch and Operation Forest Sanity II continued their patrols in the Rijana general area of Kaduna State on Monday, killing two bandits during a clearance operation.
This comes just 24 hours after the troops encountered some bandits at the Kachia-Kajuru general area, killing five and leaving many with gunshot wounds.
According to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, troops on clearance operation engaged some bandits in a gun duel in the Rijana area and killed two, while scores escaped with gunshot wounds.
The troops recovered several weapons and equipment, including three AK-47 rifles, two motorcycles, two AK-47 magazines, 19 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, two mobile phones, and two MP3 players.
The Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, congratulated the troops for their successful operation and praised the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.Gen. T.A. Lagbaja.
The governor also encouraged citizens to continue providing actionable intelligence on the movement of bandits and their collaborators through the 24-hour Security Operations Room.
The incident highlights the ongoing struggle against banditry and insecurity in Nigeria, with various states and security agencies working to contain the threat.
The federal government has also launched several initiatives to address the issue, including deploying military forces to affected areas and establishing special task forces to combat banditry.
