Scores killed as security operatives clash with bandits in Niger

Security forces, including military personnel and local vigilantes, successfully neutralized several bandit groups in Kundu village, located along the Zungeru-Tegina road in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.

The operation, which took place on Wednesday morning, resulted in widespread panic, prompting residents of the nearby Zungeru Wednesday Market to evacuate their homes amidst the persistent sound of gunfire.

Sources reported that the bandit groups were attempting to cross the area in large numbers toward the Akare axis in the Wushishi Local Government Area when the military initiated an ambush.

According to a military officer, who spoke anonymously, the troops had been monitoring the bandits’ movements based on intelligence indicating their usual path.

He said that the army had strategically positioned its forces for the ambush.

“As usual, they hardly abandone the bodies of their colleagues. But for sure, our soldiers recorded success against them,” the military source stated.

Niger State Commissioner for Homeland Security, Brigadier General Bello Abdullahi Mohammed (rtd), commented on the operation, saying, “This success is a stepping stone for us to prepare more because terrorists hardly accept defeat.”

Eyewitnesses recounted the intense encounter. “We heard gunshots for several hours. The bandits rode on about 40 motorcycles and were crossing the road around Kundu village.

“They had already stopped some cattle they intended to rustle when soldiers and vigilantes ambushed them.

“Thank God, the security operatives overpowered them, forcing them to retreat,” a resident said.

Another resident added, “We heard of their movement since Tuesday, and our vigilantes were on alert.

“They were by the roadside when they saw them coming on Wednesday morning. Soldiers were alerted and ambushed them.

Thank God soldiers were there; it would have been a different story because our vigilantes wouldn’t have been able to fight them due to their weapons and number.”

Scores killed as security operatives clash with bandits in Niger