Some 17 Nigerian soldiers have been confirmed dead following a fierce gun battle with over 300 armed terrorists in Niger State, the Nigerian Army has disclosed.
The attack, which occurred on Tuesday in Bangi, Mariga Local Government Area, was part of a coordinated attempt by the terrorists to infiltrate the community from Kwanar Dutse Forest.
According to military authorities, the operation lasted over three hours and involved both ground troops and precision airstrikes carried out by the Nigerian Air Force.
Army spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, in a statement issued on Wednesday, said the terrorists, believed to be fleeing from intensified military operations in Zamfara State, were intercepted based on credible intelligence.
“The operation, which was based on credible intelligence, led to troops engaging about 300 armed bandits in Kwanar Dutse Forest.
Sequel to the ground engagement by Nigerian Army troops, the Nigerian Air Force conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ withdrawal routes, delivering accurate heavy bombardments on identified terrorists’ locations,” Anele said.
She noted that although the exact number of terrorists killed could not be confirmed, multiple blood trails were discovered along the escape routes—suggesting heavy casualties on the part of the insurgents.
Despite the success of the operation, the Army confirmed that 17 soldiers paid the ultimate price, while 10 others sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at a military medical facility.
“The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, has extended heartfelt condolences to the families of our fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our great country,” Anele added.
She also disclosed that the Army had deployed appropriate units to work closely with the families of the fallen soldiers, while directing medical teams to ensure optimal care for the wounded personnel.
The army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting communities across Nigeria and called on the public to support ongoing counterterrorism efforts by volunteering timely information.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mission to secure all communities and protect lives and property. The sanctity of our freedom shall not be mortgaged,” the statement emphasized.
The gun duel is the latest in a string of intensified efforts by security agencies to root out terrorists and bandits operating across northern Nigeria.
