Niger: Army neutralizes scores of terrorists in failed attack on Bangi community
The Nigerian Army announced on Wednesday, June 25, that its troops, conducting anti-banditry operations in Niger State, successfully neutralized scores of terrorists during a failed attack on Bangi community in Mariga Local Government Area.
Lieutenant Colonel Apolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, revealed that the troops, working alongside the Nigerian Air Force’s Air Component, engaged over 300 bandits in Kwanar Dutse Forest.
Unfortunately, the encounter resulted in the loss of seventeen brave soldiers, with ten others sustaining varying degrees of injuries. The wounded personnel have been evacuated to a military medical facility and are reported to be in stable condition.
Lt. Col Anele explained that the bandits attempted a night-time movement towards Kwatankoro Forest, aiming to launch coordinated attacks on nearby communities or find refuge from pressure exerted by ongoing operations in Zamfara State.
However, their plans were thwarted as Nigerian Army troops engaged them in a fierce firefight lasting over three hours. Following the ground engagement, the Nigerian Air Force carried out precision airstrikes targeting the terrorists’ withdrawal routes, delivering heavy bombardments on identified enemy locations.
While the exact number of terrorist casualties remains unknown, multiple blood trails along escape routes suggest significant losses.
Further operations are ongoing to assess the full extent of the damage inflicted on the bandits.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and has directed medical teams to provide the best possible care to the injured troops. Additionally, relevant army departments have been tasked with engaging the families of the gallant warriors.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to securing communities and protecting citizens’ lives and properties nationwide. In collaboration with the Navy, Air Force, other security agencies, and the Nigerian people, the military will continue working relentlessly to end terrorism, banditry, and related crimes.
Members of the public are encouraged to support counter-terrorism efforts by providing timely information to security agencies through any available channels.
