Scores of bandits killed in gun duel with security agencies in Niger

The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with vigilante groups, has killed over 100 bandits around the Kundu community in Wushishi Local Council of Niger State.

The Guardian learnt that the bandits were decimated on Wednesday morning while crossing Kontagora road through their usual route towards the Akere axis of Kundu in Wushishi and Mashegu Local Councils, where they carry out kidnapping and cattle rustling.

A security source revealed that the military was monitoring their movement through the route and ambushed them.

This led to many casualties on the part of the bandits, although the actual number could not be ascertained at press time.

A resident from Wushishi, Ishaku Musa Kato, said: “We heard gunshots persistently on Wednesday morning, even amid rainfall, for hours. We gathered that it was a gun duel between the military and the bandits.

“About 100 bandits were killed in the encounter. We applauded the military and vigilantes for countering them successfully this time.”

Confirming the development yesterday, Niger State Commissioner for Homeland Security General Abdullahi Bello Mohammed (rtd) lauded the military and the vigilante group.

He urged the security agencies to be alert and prepared for reprisal because the criminals don’t accept defeat.