By Samuel Solomon
At least nine suspected bandits have been killed following a prolonged overnight gun battle with Nigerian troops in parts of Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State.
It was gathered that the clash occurred around Bakaji and Unguwar Garma communities in the Goron Dutse area, also claimed the life of a vigilante member, while another vigilante sustained injuries.
According to reports, the armed bandits invaded the area around midnight, attacking the communities in large numbers and firing sporadically with heavy weapons.
The Nigerian military, supported by local vigilantes, swiftly engaged the attackers, leading to hours of intense gunfire.
The Chairman of the Shanono/Bagwai Community Security Forum, Yahya Bagobiri, confirmed the incident, saying the troops successfully repelled the attackers after a fierce exchange.
Bagobiri said that although the bandits were forced to retreat due to sustained military firepower, they managed to abduct six residents and rustle about 40 cows during the raid.
He added that the military recovered several motorcycles belonging to the bandits during the operation.
However, the criminals reportedly regrouped and returned to the area between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m., opening fire again on the troops, but failed to breach the security cordon.
“Because they came in their hundreds, they still succeeded in abducting six persons and taking about 40 cows,” Bagobiri said.
“But thanks to the military who returned heavy fire, killing nine of them and forcing them to abandon their motorcycles.”
He further noted that the bandits later returned under the cover of early morning hours to evacuate the bodies of their dead colleagues.
Bagobiri commended the Nigerian military for their gallantry and timely intervention, noting that their presence prevented further destruction and loss of lives.
“I sincerely commend the military for safeguarding the area and stopping the bandits from causing serious havoc,” he said.
“At that time, nobody could even come out of their homes. They truly deserve appreciation.”
Security operations are said to be ongoing in the area as efforts continue to rescue the abducted victims and recover the stolen livestock.
All efforts to get a reaction from the police were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
