17 Killed, Several Bandits Neutralized in Fierce Gun Battle in Niger State
A deadly confrontation between Nigerian soldiers and heavily armed bandits in Niger State has resulted in the deaths of 17 soldiers, marking one of the deadliest clashes in the region in recent months
The gun battle took place in the volatile Mariga Local Government Area, where armed groups have long operated from forest hideouts.
The Nigerian Army confirmed that its troops came under intense attack during a routine clearance operation in the Kwanar Dutse Forest axis.
The soldiers, who were on a mission to dislodge the bandits from their strongholds, were ambushed by a large number of gunmen.
Military authorities said the troops fought gallantly, and several of the attackers were neutralized during the exchange. Despite this, the army suffered the loss of 17 personnel, while others sustained injuries and were evacuated for treatment.
According to a statement attributed to Lt. Col. Appolonia Anele, the military’s response included both ground forces and coordinated airstrikes, which helped repel the attackers and prevent further casualties. The fallen soldiers have since been transported to the Kontagora Barracks in Niger State.
Eyewitnesses in the area reported hearing gunfire and explosions for several hours as the clash unfolded deep in the forest. Locals also confirmed that the region had been under threat from recurring bandit attacks, prompting increased military presence in recent weeks.
This latest attack underscores the growing boldness of criminal elements operating across the north-central region, particularly in Niger, Zamfara, and Kaduna states. It also highlights the challenges faced by Nigeria’s armed forces as they continue to battle multiple security threats, including insurgency, kidnapping, and rural banditry.
Security analysts have called for enhanced military intelligence, improved equipment for troops, and sustained aerial surveillance to support ongoing operations.
Civil society groups and residents are also urging the federal government to honour the memory of the fallen soldiers by accelerating efforts to rid the region of violent armed groups.
President Bola Tinubu is yet to issue an official statement on the incident, but sources say he has been briefed and is closely monitoring developments.
