Eight Bandits Killed by IED They Planted for Nigerian Troops

At least eight suspected bandits have been killed after an improvised explosive device (IED) they allegedly planted detonated along Lukope road in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria.

The explosion occurred on Friday night around 8:30 p.m. along the Kurebe–Kushaka axis, a forested corridor frequently used by armed groups operating in the area. The route is known for movement by motorcycles and serves as a passage between several rural settlements.

Security sources said the device was originally intended to target advancing troops but was triggered when members of the group rode over it while traveling in a convoy of motorcycles.

The blast reportedly killed eight of the riders instantly, while others sustained injuries. The affected group was said to be associated with a network linked to a known bandit leader operating in the region.

Following the incident, troops under Operation Fansan Yamma, Sector 1, were deployed to the area. Patrols were intensified along the axis to prevent further movement by armed groups and to secure surrounding communities.

Residents in nearby communities within Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State, Nigeria, including Kushaka, Kurebe, and Gbato, have since expressed concern over possible retaliatory attacks and increased insecurity along the corridor.

Security operations in the area are ongoing as authorities continue efforts to monitor movement within the forest belt and restrict armed group activity.