In a successful military operation late Friday evening, troops of the Nigerian Army, operating jointly with hybrid forces and acting on intelligence provided by the Department of State Services (DSS), eliminated at least 45 armed bandits in Iburu village, located in Shiroro Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State.
According to security insiders, the DSS intercepted credible intelligence indicating that heavily armed terrorists on multiple motorcycles were en route to launch an attack on Iburu and nearby communities. Acting swiftly on this information, DSS operatives notified troops who were on alert in the vicinity.
A heavy exchange of gunfire reportedly broke out as the security forces engaged the advancing terrorists. In the ensuing battle, the military forces successfully repelled the attack, neutralizing a significant number of the insurgents.
Local residents are said to have confirmed seeing no fewer than 40 lifeless bodies of the attackers scattered across the area following the clash. Numerous motorcycles believed to have been used by the terrorists were also reportedly set ablaze or destroyed in the process.
However, the operation was not without losses. Two operatives of the hybrid forces, who fought side by side with the army personnel, were killed in action. Four others sustained severe gunshot wounds and are currently receiving medical care in a public hospital located in the state capital.
This operation is seen as a major victory for security forces in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry in Nigeria’s North-Central region. Shiroro and its neighboring LGAs have long been hotspots for violent attacks by armed groups, making the security presence in the area crucial for the safety of residents.
What You Should Know
Iburu village is part of the volatile Shiroro LGA in Niger State, frequently targeted by terrorists due to its remote terrain. The recent operation underscores the importance of timely intelligence in averting mass casualty attacks.
While the military action led to a significant loss on the side of the bandits, the death of security personnel is a solemn reminder of the human cost borne by those on the frontlines of Nigeria’s internal security efforts.
