No fewer than eight suspected bandits have been killed by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) believed to have been planted for security forces along Lukope Road in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 8:30 p.m. on March 20 along the Kurebe–Kushaka axis, a known corridor for armed groups operating within the forest belt.

The sources explained that the IED, suspected to have been emplaced by the bandits to target advancing troops, detonated when members of the group inadvertently rode over it while moving on motorcycles.

“The explosion occurred as the bandits were transiting the route, leading to the instant death of about eight of them and the injury of several others, the source said.

The bandits were believed to be loyalists of notorious bandit leader Dogo Gide and were reportedly heading towards Lukope area.

Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma, Sector 1, were said to have responded swiftly to the scene and intensified patrols to forestall any further security breaches.

The incident has, however, heightened tension among residents of Kushaka, Kurebe, Gbato and neighbouring communities over fears of possible reprisal attacks.

Stakeholders have alerted relevant stakeholders to take proactive measures to reassure residents and strengthen security presence in the area.

Sources said monitoring of the situation was ongoing, with increased patrols along vulnerable routes to maintain stability. (Zagazola, excluding headline)