Scores of bandits and a number of Nigerian soldiers have died after fierce gun battles broke out in parts of Niger and Kaduna States.
The Nigerian Army Headquarters shared the update through its official X account on Wednesday. According to the statement, soldiers launched strong counter-attacks in response to a violent assault by armed groups in Kwanar Dutse Mairiga and Boka areas of Niger State, as well as Aungwan Turai in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The army noted that the gunmen, who were described as terrorists, stormed the mentioned locations without warning, triggering a long day of fighting. In the statement, the army said, “land and air component troops launched several counter-attacks that eliminated scores of bandits in the encounters.”
While the counter-operation successfully took out many of the attackers, the army also suffered losses. “Sadly, some gallant warriors paid the supreme price in the day-long battles, while four wounded in-action troops are currently receiving treatment for their gunshot wounds. Additional updates later,” the army said.
Residents in the affected areas reported hearing heavy gunfire and aircraft hovering above as soldiers battled the criminals. Locals in Chikun LGA said they were forced to flee into nearby bushes to escape the violence. One eyewitness claimed, “We saw helicopters flying low and heard gunshots all day. It was like a war zone.”
Authorities have not confirmed the exact number of people killed, but the fighting is believed to have caused serious damage and fear in the communities involved.
Military officers are still combing the area in search of any remaining threats. According to a source in the army, more troops have been sent to secure the locations and prevent further attacks.
