Troops of the Nigerian military have killed no fewer than 80 bandits who attempted to infiltrate Kebbi State from the Zamfara border, in what has been described as one of the most decisive security operations in recent months.

The Special Adviser to the Kebbi State Governor on Communication and Strategy, Abdullahi Zuru, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, describing the operation as a major victory in the state’s sustained war against banditry.

According to him, the operation, which took place in Ngaski Local Government Area, followed the strategic deployment of fully-equipped troops along Kebbi’s borders with Sokoto, Zamfara, and Niger states as directed by Governor Nasir Idris.

Zuru said Governor Idris had earlier requested additional military reinforcements to strengthen border security, a move that has since resulted in the killing of hundreds of bandits and the restoration of peace in several communities.

He explained that credible intelligence prompted the positioning of troops around Makurdi village, where soldiers engaged heavily armed attackers in fierce gun battles on Friday and Saturday nights.

“About 80 bandits were neutralized, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds,” said the Director of Security, Abdulrahaman Usman, adding that dozens of motorcycles and two abducted victims were recovered during the operation.

Zuru noted that the Kebbi State Government’s close collaboration with security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Army, has been instrumental in sustaining the offensive against criminal gangs.

He recalled that Governor Idris had recently donated 100 Hilux vans and 5,000 motorcycles to enhance troop mobility and rapid response capacity across the state.

Reacting to the success, the Emir of Yauri, Dr. Zayyanu Muhammad, commended the gallantry of the troops and lauded Governor Idris for his unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property.

“The people of Kebbi are proud of the sacrifices of our soldiers and the leadership of Governor Idris, whose efforts are restoring peace and hope to our communities,” the Emir said.

Security sources said that the latest onslaught has forced several bandit groups to retreat deeper into neighbouring forests, signalling that Kebbi State is becoming increasingly unsafe for criminal elements. (The PUNCH, but headline rejigged)