Residents of Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State have broken into widespread jubilation following a decisive operation by the Nigerian Army which successfully foiled a major bandit attack on their communities, resulting in the elimination of at least 13 suspected bandits.
The Sokoto State Government has swiftly moved to commend the troops, acknowledging the operation as a major success in the ongoing fight against insurgency in the North-West.
The latest military success follows increased intelligence gathering and robust deployment by troops under Operation FANSAN YANMA (OPFY).
An attempted raid by armed bandits was launched on Monday evening, targeting communities near Kurawa and Kwanan Kimbo in Sabon Birni LGA. The assailants were reportedly well-armed and intended to abduct residents and rustle livestock.
Troops stationed at a nearby Forward Operating Base (FOB) swiftly mobilized, engaging the bandits in a fierce gun duel that lasted for several hours. The superior firepower and determination of the soldiers forced the attackers to retreat.
Military sources confirmed that the troops pursued the fleeing bandits to their hideouts across a stream, where additional casualties were recorded. At least nine bodies were recovered at the scene, with four more found in the surrounding bushes, bringing the total eliminated to 13.
The troops recovered several sophisticated weapons, including AK-47 rifles and large quantities of ammunition. The military reported no casualties on their side.
In an official statement, the Sokoto State Government heaped praise on the troops for their gallantry and professionalism:
Through the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Usman (retd.), the government stated that the military had averted what could have been a tragic assault on innocent residents and traders.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to continuing to provide full logistical and operational support to all security agencies in the state, noting that sustained efforts are necessary to curb the recurrent attacks plaguing the region.
The success has boosted public confidence, with residents of Kurawa, Tarah, and nearby villages celebrating the military’s determined action and urging security agencies to “sustain the tempo” until peace is fully restored.
This operation is a strong testament to the impact of robust military engagement in a local government area that has been a frequent target for armed bandits.
