DSS, Nigerian Army neutralise 50 bandits, rescue kidnapped victims in Niger

By Matthew Ogunwale

The Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army have neutralised over 50 bandits and rescued kidnapped victims during a joint operation in Kumbashi, located in the Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.

This operation, which occurred on August 26, was initiated following an attempted attack by approximately 300 armed bandits on a DSS facility in the area. Security forces engaged the attackers in a gun battle, resulting in the deaths of at least 50 bandits, while others fled with injuries.

During the operation, seven kidnapped victims were rescued, and stolen cattle were also recovered.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow The Lagos Voice on WhatsApp channel for latest updates

Honourable Abdulmalik Mohammed Sarkin-Daji, the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, commended the security agencies for their efforts, describing the operation as a demonstration of “superior intelligence, training, and firepower.” He noted that the attackers, shocked by their losses, were seen evacuating the bodies of their fallen members on motorcycles.

Local residents confirmed that, despite being outnumbered, the security operatives successfully repelled the assault, preventing what could have been large-scale casualties in Kumbashi.

This development follows the recent arrest of Abubakar Abba, the leader of the notorious Mahmuda terror group, during an operation in Wawa, Niger State.

Sarkin-Daji urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by sharing timely information, assuring them that the Assembly would provide the necessary legislative support to enhance security operations.

The Niger State operation is the latest in a series of joint missions by the DSS and the Army aimed at curbing banditry and terrorism in the country.