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At least nine suspected bandits were killed following a prolonged gun battle between Nigerian troops and armed criminals in Kano State.
The clash occurred late Saturday night in Bakaji and Unguwar Garma communities, located in the Goron Dutse area of Shanono Local Government Area.
One member of a local vigilante group was killed during the encounter, while another sustained injuries.
Gun Duel Lasted Several Hours
According to eyewitness accounts, the bandits stormed the area in large numbers and engaged troops in a fierce exchange of gunfire that lasted for several hours before they were forced to retreat.
Confirming the incident on Sunday, Chairman of the Shanono/Bagwai Community Security Forum, Yahya Bagobiri, said the assailants fled under intense military fire but still managed to abduct six residents and rustle about 40 cows.
“The military engaged them heavily and killed several bandits, recovering some motorcycles. However, because they came in hundreds, they still abducted six people and rustled 40 cows,” Bagobiri said.
Bandits Returned at Dawn
Bagobiri explained that the criminals later returned between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., opening fire again on the troops but failed to gain access to the communities.
“Thanks to the military response, nine bandits were killed and many motorcycles were abandoned. The bandits later came back in the morning to retrieve the corpses of their dead,” he added.
He commended the military for their swift intervention, noting that residents were unable to leave their homes during the attack due to the intensity of the gunfire.
“The military deserves commendation for safeguarding the area and preventing further destruction,” Bagobiri said.
Army Confirms Recovery of Items
When contacted, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, Captain Babatunde Zubairu, confirmed the incident.
He said troops recovered three motorcycles and two mobile phones stained with blood at the scene.
“I cannot confirm the exact number of bandits killed, but one vigilante member was injured. We recovered three motorcycles and two mobile phones with bloodstains,” Zubairu stated.
Previous Military Success in Shanono
The incident comes months after troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation MESA, led by the 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, neutralised no fewer than 19 bandits in Shanono Local Government Area in October.
Security operations in the area remain ongoing as authorities intensify efforts to curb banditry and protect local communities.
