Bandits overpower Nigerian troops, kill 20 soldiers in Niger

Tragedy struck in Niger State as an ambush by bandits along the Zungeru-Tegina Road led to the death of at least 20 soldiers, according to witnesses and security sources. The incident occurred late Sunday night, with seven soldiers and five vigilantes also sustaining gunshot injuries. The wounded were transported to the IBB Specialist Hospital in the state capital, Minna.

The soldiers had been en route to communities recently targeted by bandits in the Wushishi Local Government Area. The bandits had launched attacks on several villages in the region, forcing farmers to flee to safer areas.

According to military sources, the casualties comprised 18 army personnel and two officers of the Nigerian Air Force. An encounter between the soldiers and the bandits, who were in possession of a large number of cattle near Kundu village in Rafi Local Government Area, escalated into a deadly exchange of fire.

Senator Mohammed Sani Musa, representing Niger East Senatorial District, confirmed that 13 soldiers lost their lives in the ambush. He appealed to the federal government to deploy military forces and security measures to the affected areas to safeguard innocent lives and property. Expressing concern about the simultaneous escalation of attacks across various parts of Niger State, he emphasized the need for swift and decisive action.

The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges posed by banditry and criminal activities in some regions of Nigeria. The call for urgent government intervention underscores the gravity of the situation and the necessity to address these issues promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens.