Army thwarts bandit attack in Kebbi
The Nigerian Army’s 223 Light Battalion, Zuru, successfully repelled a large-scale attack by over 400 armed bandits in Ribah town, located in the Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
On Wednesday, troops responded swiftly to the invasion, engaging the attackers in a fierce gun duel that lasted several hours. Eyewitnesses described the scene as a battlefield, highlighting the army’s superior firepower and tactics that ultimately forced the bandits to retreat in disarray.
Military sources confirmed that many of the bandits were neutralised during the exchange, with others fleeing injured and abandoning a cache of weapons and ammunition. The town has since been secured, restoring normalcy for the residents.
AbdulRahman Zagga, the Director of Security at the Kebbi State Cabinet Office, praised the courage and professionalism of the soldiers involved. “The troops displayed uncommon bravery. Their swift response and combat efficiency turned what could have been a major disaster into a remarkable victory,” he stated.
Zagga also commended the Nigerian Air Force for its timely intervention and aerial support, which inflicted heavy casualties on fleeing bandits and disrupted their escape routes. “The situation is now fully under control. The people of Ribah can breathe a sigh of relief thanks to the coordinated efforts of our security forces,” he added.
Intelligence reports suggest that the attackers were part of the same criminal syndicate responsible for recent assaults in Niger State, and their attempt to extend their terror campaign into Kebbi was decisively thwarted.
In a related development, troops from the Dukku Barracks repelled another bandit assault on Mera in the Augie Local Government Area. The attackers, identified as Lakurawa bandits, attempted to rustle cattle but faced stiff resistance from the Nigerian Army, which forced them to flee empty-handed.
Governor Nasir Idris reacted to the successful operations, commending the gallantry of the security personnel and reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening security across the state. “These victories are proof that with sustained support and collaboration, our security agencies can defeat banditry and restore peace to our communities,” he asserted.
Just two days earlier, a joint security operation in the same Danko Wasagu axis led to the rescue of six abducted individuals and the recovery of stolen livestock, further highlighting the momentum in the fight against insecurity in the region. Residents of Ribah and Mera have expressed relief and gratitude, urging authorities to maintain the current tempo to prevent future attacks.
