Security Forces Kill 50 Bandits, Rescue Kidnapped Victims

Security forces in Niger State have killed more than 50 bandits and rescued several kidnapped victims in Kumbashi village, Mariga Local Government Area. The operation was carried out jointly by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army on Tuesday, following an attempted attack on a DSS camp by around 300 armed men.

During the confrontation, security operatives engaged the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to retreat after sustaining heavy casualties. Several bandits reportedly fled the scene with gunshot wounds. Seven kidnapped victims were rescued, and stolen cattle were recovered during the operation.

Abdulmalik Mohammed Sarkin-Daji, Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, praised the security agencies, describing the success as a significant boost in the fight against banditry. Residents of Kumbashi said the operation has restored confidence in the ability of security forces to maintain control in areas affected by bandit attacks.

The development comes days after DSS operatives arrested Abubakar Abba, leader of the notorious Mahmuda terror group, in Wawa, Niger State.