Kano: 19 Bandits Killed in Fierce Gun Battle with Troops

At least 19 bandits have been killed in a fierce gun duel with troops of the Joint Task Force Operation MESA in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State. The operation, led by the 3 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, also recorded the loss of two soldiers and one local vigilante.

Captain Babatunde Zubairu, spokesperson for the 3 Brigade, confirmed the incident, explaining that troops launched the operation after receiving intelligence on the movement of bandits around Ungwan Tudu, Ungwan Tsamiya, and Goron Dutse in Shanono. The troops moved swiftly to engage the armed group, leading to an intense exchange of fire.

According to Zubairu, the bandits, who rode into the area on motorcycles, suffered heavy casualties as troops overpowered them and recovered several motorcycles and mobile phones from the scene. He said the fallen soldiers and vigilante “paid the supreme sacrifice” while defending their communities.

He added that further operations are underway to secure vulnerable areas and prevent renewed attacks, urging residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activities.

Brigadier General Ahmed Tukur, Commander of the 3 Brigade, reaffirmed the army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Kano and its environs, assuring residents of continued collaboration with other security agencies to maintain peace.

Communities in Shanono and Tsanyanwa, both near the Katsina border, have recently suffered repeated attacks from bandits believed to have crossed over from neighbouring Katsina State.