GIDA SODA, KATSINA — Joint security forces under Operation FANSAN YANMA have successfully repelled a midnight bandit attack in Gida Soda Village, dealing a decisive blow to the assailants by neutralising two of them and recovering a motorcycle used in the raid.
Security sources confirmed that the attack occurred at about 12:45 a.m. on February 17, when heavily armed bandits stormed the quiet community, firing sporadically and causing panic among residents.
In a swift and coordinated response, troops working alongside local police and Civil Watch Patrol Teams engaged the attackers in a fierce gun duel that lasted several minutes.
The superior firepower and tactical manoeuvre of the joint forces forced the criminals to retreat into the surrounding bush.
During the clearance operation, two bandits were neutralised, while a Boxer-brand motorcycle believed to belong to the fleeing gang was recovered at the scene.
However, the operation was not without tragedy. A 30-year-old resident, Hassana Muhammad, was fatally struck by a bullet during the attack. She was immediately rushed to Dansoda Hospital, where medical personnel confirmed her death.
The loss has cast a shadow over the community, even as residents expressed relief that security forces were able to prevent what could have been a far deadlier assault.
Sources disclosed that troops have intensified combing operations in the surrounding forests to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent further incursions. Additional patrols have also been deployed to reinforce security in neighbouring communities.
Operation FANSAN YANMA, a joint military offensive targeting banditry and criminal networks in the North-West, has recorded a series of recent successes as security forces continue to tighten the noose on armed groups operating in Katsina and adjoining states.
Residents of Gida Soda have commended the swift intervention of the troops, describing it as timely and courageous.
Security authorities reiterated their commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal elements, assuring citizens that efforts to restore lasting peace across vulnerable communities remain unwavering.
As investigations continue, the recovered motorcycle is expected to provide further intelligence in tracking the criminal network behind the attack.
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