In a significant counter-insurgency operation, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in collaboration with the Nigerian military have successfully neutralized 45 armed bandits during a coordinated ambush in Niger State.
The joint operation, which took place in a forested area between Mashegu and Kontagora local government areas, followed days of intelligence gathering by the DSS and precision planning by military special forces. Security sources confirmed that the raid targeted a notorious camp used by heavily armed bandits who have been responsible for repeated attacks, kidnappings, and cattle rustling in the region.
The ambush was launched in the early hours of Tuesday, catching the criminals off guard. Fierce gunfire ensued, lasting for over an hour, with the security forces maintaining tactical superiority throughout the encounter. By the end of the operation, 45 bandits were confirmed killed, while several others reportedly fled with bullet wounds.
No casualties were recorded among the security operatives, according to initial field reports. However, clearance operations are ongoing to mop up fleeing suspects and recover more weapons.
Residents of surrounding communities have hailed the operation as a major victory, expressing relief after months of relentless attacks that have displaced hundreds and disrupted farming activities. Local leaders commended the security agencies for their swift and decisive action, urging them to maintain the momentum until peace is fully restored.
This latest success adds to a series of intensified military operations in the North Central and North West regions, as the Federal Government steps up efforts to degrade armed groups terrorizing rural communities.
The Defence Headquarters is expected to release a formal statement on the operation in the coming days, as security agencies ramp up joint patrols in the area to prevent reprisal attacks.
