Security forces eliminate 45 outlaws, suffer loss of officer and two troops in Katsina clash

A fierce encounter between Nigerian Army troops and bandits in Katsina State's Danmusa Local Government Area on Friday resulted in the loss of a captain and two soldiers, while the troops killed at least 45 terrorists in the gun battle.

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The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs in Katsina State, Nasir Mua’zu, disclosed this information in a statement made available to newsmen on Saturday in Katsina, which outlined the details of the operation that led to the clash.

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The operation was initiated based on credible intelligence gathered by security personnel, according to the statement, which also revealed that the bandits' ranks included notable figures such as Alti, the nephew and second-in-command to the notorious bandit leader, Adamu Alieru.

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Another top bandit, known as Damale, was also eliminated during the encounter, as the troops successfully targeted key members of the bandit group that had been terrorising the area.

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The clash originated from an attack by bandits from Zamfara State, who were armed with sophisticated weapons and rode into Alhazawa village in Musawa LGA on March 5, with the intention of stealing cattle.

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The community members and repentant bandits from the area, however, fought back against the bandits, killing four of them and recovering all the stolen cows, which were then returned to their owners.

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Seeking revenge, the bandits launched a second attack on March 6, but they were met by soldiers attached to the Army's Forward Operating Base in Dan Ali, who were heading towards Musawa LGA near Maidabino A ward.

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A fierce battle ensued, resulting in the neutralisation of all 45 bandits by the Army, although the victory came at the cost of the lives of Captain Paul Hassan and two other soldiers.

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The government of Katsina State, on behalf of the State Governor, Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda, has commended the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers, acknowledging that their actions have saved countless lives and disrupted the operations of the bandits.

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The government has also extended condolences to the families of the deceased military personnel, while reaffirming its commitment to pursuing the bandits and restoring peace to every corner of Katsina State.

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The security forces in the state remain alert and will continue to target the bandits, ensuring that they are brought to justice and peace is fully restored to the area.