Scores of Bandits Killed as Army, DSS and Volunteer Forces Ambush, Foil Major Attack on Niger Communities

 

Troops of the Nigerian Army, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), and local volunteer forces have successfully foiled what could have been a devastating large-scale bandit attack on Bagna and Erena communities in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.

Credible security sources said the joint team acted on advance intelligence about the bandits’ planned assault on the communities on Tuesday.

According to the sources, over 300 bandits, heavily armed with dangerous weapons and riding motorcycles, were heading towards Bagna and Erena when security operatives and vigilantes laid a successful ambush.

“Over 300 bandits armed with dangerous weapons and on motorcycles were headed to the communities. Unfortunately for them, security operatives and local vigilantes, who had credible intelligence on their movements, ambushed them. Scores were killed while many others fled toward the Makuba and Allawa axis,” a security source disclosed.

The bandits suffered heavy losses in the encounter, with many of the attackers neutralised by the superior firepower and coordinated response of the joint forces.

Residents of the affected communities expressed profound relief and gratitude to the security agencies and volunteer forces, whose timely intervention prevented what locals described as a potential major disaster.

“We are very happy. We thank the joint security forces for protecting us,” one resident said.

A security source further highlighted the growing effectiveness of collaboration between formal security agencies and local volunteers: “We are witnessing an increase in collaboration between security agencies and local volunteer forces. This has led to a bridging of security gaps, and making the first line of defence against insecurity very effective. Their actions have helped strengthen security in several communities across the country.”

The foiled attack comes amid continued efforts by security forces to curb banditry and other criminal activities in parts of Niger State, particularly in the Shiroro axis, which has faced persistent threats from armed groups.