AT least 19 suspected bandits were killed during a fierce gun battle with troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation MESA, in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State, the Nigerian Army has confirmed.
However, the military operation was not without casualty as two soldiers and one local vigilante lost their lives while confronting the fleeing criminals on Saturday night.
The operation, according to a statement sent to News Point Nigeria on Monday by Captain Babatunde Zubairu, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, followed credible intelligence on the movement of suspected bandits infiltrating the Unguwan Tudu, Unguwan Tsamiya, and Goron Dutse axis of Shanono around 5:00 pm on November 1, 2025.
Upon receiving the tip-off, troops from the 3 Brigade with support from other security agencies swiftly mobilized to the area, engaging the bandits in what was described as a heavy exchange of gunfire.
The armed criminals, who reportedly stormed the communities on motorcycles, were successfully repelled and pushed out of the territory.
The statement revealed that the troops recovered several motorcycles and two mobile phones from the fleeing assailants.
“It was confirmed that 19 bandits were neutralized during the encounter. Regrettably, 2 gallant soldiers and one local vigilante paid the supreme sacrifice,” Capt. Zubairu said.
He added that follow-up operations are currently ongoing around the nearby vulnerable communities, which have been frequently targeted by bandits involved in cattle rustling and other violent crimes.
The military appealed to residents to remain security conscious and promptly report suspicious movements to authorities as efforts intensify to safeguard lives and property in the region.
“The Commander, 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Tukur, assures law-abiding citizens of continued commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state while working closely with sister services and other security agencies,” the statement added.
