Nigerian Troops ‘Kill 45 Bandits, Lose Three Soldiers’ During Gun Duel in Katsina

Troops of the Nigerian Army have reportedly killed 45 suspected bandits during a gun battle in Danmusa LGA of Katsina state.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication based in the Lake Chad region, three soldiers were killed in the operation.

Citing security sources, Makama said the bandits had earlier attacked Alhazawa village in Musawa LGA on Thursday, rustling cattle belonging to residents.

The publication said community members, alongside some repentant bandits in the area, resisted the attack, killing four of the assailants and recovering the stolen cattle.

The bandits were said to have regrouped and returned on March 6, with the intent to carry out a reprisal attack.

According to Makama, the gunmen encountered troops stationed at a forward operating base in Dan Ali, located in Danmusa LGA.

A fierce gun battle was said to have ensued, during which troops overpowered the attackers and killed 45 of them.

Makama said that among those killed were two bandit leaders identified as Alti, who is said to be a nephew and second-in-command to Adamu Alieru, a notorious bandit kingpin, and another commander known as Damale.

The publication said Alti had recently assumed a more active role within the bandit network following the death of Kachalla Dan Isihu, his brother, who was previously killed by security forces during counter-banditry operations.

Makama said Alti reportedly coordinated several violent attacks across communities, particularly along the Danjibga axis in Tsafe LGA.