Security forces in Zamfara State have successfully repelled a planned bandit attack, killing eight assailants in a gun battle in Fegin Kanawa village, located in the Wonaka District of Gusau Local Council.
The operation, which involved a joint team of Nigeria Police operatives and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) from Fegin Mahe village, was launched in response to credible intelligence about the movement of armed bandits in the area.
According to a report from the Officer-in-Charge of the Tactical Zonal Force Squad (ZFS), the security team walked into an ambush laid by the criminals, who had taken strategic positions ahead of the confrontation.
A fierce exchange of gunfire followed, resulting in the deaths of eight bandits.
Several others reportedly escaped into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds.
During the operation, Inspector Tasi’u Lawali of the 42 Police Mobile Force (PMF) in Gusau sustained gunshot injuries to his hand and mouth.
He was quickly evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Gusau, where he is currently receiving treatment and reported to be in stable condition.
In the aftermath of the ambush, police authorities launched a manhunt for the fleeing attackers, with ongoing search operations in nearby forests and hideouts.
Meanwhile, in Gwoza Local Council of Borno State, Nigerian troops under Operation HADIN KAI have made significant progress in counter-insurgency efforts, recovering and safely detonating 14 improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the IEDs were discovered during intensified clearance operations in Bitta and nearby communities.
The explosives were believed to have been planted by terrorists targeting both civilians and security personnel.
Sources noted that the devices were strategically buried along commonly used footpaths, farmland trails, and key access roads posing serious threats to local farmers and military operations.
Specialist teams handled the safe detonation, while clearance efforts continue to secure the area from further threats.
