Troops conducting clearance operations from Bukuyum town in Zamfara State are currently engaged in a fierce gun duel with fleeing armed bandits during an ongoing offensive in the Tsilligidi forest axis.

Security sources said the troops advanced toward suspected terrorist hideouts following intelligence on criminal movements within the forest corridor.

The sources disclosed that the bandits, after overhearing gunfire from the advancing troops, attempted to escape through routes between Kundubu and Gizazz villages to avoid interception.

According to the sources, troops intercepted the fleeing terrorists and engaged them in an intense exchange of fire, with several of the suspects reportedly neutralised, while others escaped with possible gunshot wounds into nearby bushes.

The sources added that the operation was part of intensified military offensives aimed at dismantling bandit enclaves and restoring security across vulnerable communities in Zamfara State.

They said pursuit and clearance operations were still ongoing in the area as troops continued to track down the fleeing criminals. (Zagazola, excluding headline)