The Nigerian Army has announced the successful neutralization of scores of terrorists following a fierce overnight battle in the Bangi community of Mariga Local Government Area, Niger State. The operation, which was part of ongoing anti-banditry efforts, ended in a major blow to the insurgents, though at a heavy cost—seventeen soldiers lost their lives, and ten others sustained injuries.
Lieutenant Colonel Apolonia Anele, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, revealed that troops, working alongside the Nigerian Air Force’s air component, confronted more than 300 bandits in Kwanar Dutse Forest.
“Sadly, seventeen brave and gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the encounter, while ten others sustained varying degrees of injury,” Lt. Col. Anele stated. “The wounded personnel have been evacuated to a military medical facility, where they are receiving treatment and are in stable condition.”
The Army spokesperson explained that intelligence indicated the terrorists were either plotting coordinated strikes on surrounding communities or seeking refuge from intensified military operations in neighbouring Zamfara State. However, the Army’s swift response disrupted their movement, triggering a “fierce fire-fight that lasted over three hours.”
Following the ground engagement, the Nigerian Air Force launched coordinated airstrikes on the fleeing terrorists’ routes, hitting their locations with precision bombardments.
“Sequel to the ground engagement by Nigerian Army troops, the Nigerian Air Force conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ withdrawal routes, delivering accurate heavy bombardments on identified terrorists’ locations,” Lt. Col. Anele said. “Although the exact number of casualties could not be ascertained, multiple blood trails along their escape routes presumably indicate significant enemy losses.”
She noted that further operations were underway to determine the full scale of damage inflicted on the terrorists.
“The Chief of Army Staff also directed the military medical teams to ensure the best possible care for the injured troops,” Anele added. “The relevant Nigerian Army departments have also been tasked to engage with the families of all our gallant warriors who have undoubtedly performed their duty, most admirably.”
Reaffirming the Army’s commitment to securing Nigeria, the statement emphasized the unity and collaboration between the military and civilians in fighting insecurity.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mission to secure all communities and protect the lives and property of all our citizens across the nation,” she declared. “The sanctity of our freedom shall not be mortgaged and the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force, other security agencies and of course, the great people of our nation will continue to work tirelessly to see an end to terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality plaguing our society.”
