The Nigerian Army has dealt a devastating blow to criminal gangs terrorising parts of Katsina State, neutralising no fewer than 45 bandits during a fierce gun battle in Danmusa Local Government Area.
Successful operation followed credible intelligence gathered by security operatives, according to a statement issued on Friday by the Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs.
Among those killed in the encounter was Alti, the nephew and second-in-command to notorious bandit leader Adamu Alieru.
Another feared gang leader identified as Damale was also eliminated during the operation.
Security sources said the confrontation was triggered after heavily armed bandits from Zamfara State invaded Alhazawa village in Musawa Local Government Area on March 5, attempting to rustle cattle.
However, local residents, assisted by repentant bandits in the area, resisted the attack, killing four of the assailants and successfully recovering all the stolen cattle which were returned to their owners.
Angered by the loss, the bandits reportedly regrouped and returned in larger numbers the following day, heading toward Musawa through Maidabino A Ward. Their movement brought them into direct confrontation with soldiers attached to the Army’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Dan Ali, sparking a fierce exchange of gunfire.
After an intense battle, troops of the Nigerian Army overpowered the criminals, neutralising all 45 bandits and effectively disrupting the activities of the armed gang.
Despite the major victory, the military recorded casualties. Captain Paul Hassan and two other soldiers paid the ultimate price during the operation.
Reacting to the development, the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, commended the courage and sacrifice of the troops on behalf of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda and the people of the state.
“The bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers have saved countless lives and disrupted the operations of these dangerous criminals,” he said.
The commissioner also extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, assuring that security forces remain resolute in pursuing criminal elements until lasting peace is restored across Katsina State.
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