Troops Kill 14 Suspected Bandits in Katsina Ambush

Troops of the Nigerian Army have reportedly killed 14 suspected bandits during a counter-ambush operation in Gora community, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, the Punch newspaper reported.

The operation, which took place late Tuesday night, also resulted in the recovery of seven motorcycles allegedly belonging to the suspected bandits.

Sources in the area disclosed that the incident occurred after a large group of armed bandits attempted to launch an operation in Gora and neighbouring communities.

According to the sources, the bandits, riding motorcycles in pairs and armed with dangerous weapons, initially attempted to ambush military personnel operating in the area.

However, troops reportedly intercepted the armed group in a counter-ambush between Gora and Gidan Barau communities, catching the suspected bandits by surprise.

The sources further said some of the bandits later returned to the scene in an attempt to retrieve the bodies of their fallen members but were met with another military ambush.

The operation reportedly left 14 suspected bandits dead, while seven motorcycles were recovered by the troops.

Residents said the affected communities had previously experienced frequent bandit attacks, including kidnappings and cattle rustling, particularly in rural settlements.

The traditional ruler of Gora community, Alhaji Gora, and a traditional title holder, Abdulaziz Sardauna, reportedly confirmed the incident.

As of the time of filing this report, the Katsina State Government, Nigerian Army and state police command had yet to issue official statements on the operation.