Residents jubilate as military foils attack, kills 13 bandits

Residents of Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State broke into jubilation on Monday after troops of the Nigerian Army foiled an attempted attack on their communities and killed at least 13 suspected bandits in a coordinated operation.

Troops deployed in Kurawa near Kwanan Kimbo engaged the attackers in a fierce gun duel that lasted several hours, forcing the assailants to retreat.

Soldiers later pursued the fleeing bandits to their hideout across a stream, where additional casualties were recorded.

A community source told our correspondent that nine bodies were recovered within the area, while four others were found in the surrounding bush.

Several weapons, including AK-47 rifles and ammunition, were also recovered and taken to the military base in Kurawa.

Military sources confirmed the operation, conducted under Operation Fansan Yamma , describing it as “intense” but noting that the army recorded no casualties.

“It was a determined effort by the troops. The terrorists suffered heavy losses,” one source said.

The operation came just days after troops and local vigilantes repelled another attack on Gatawa community on Friday, heightening public confidence in the renewed security efforts.

Across Kurawa, Tarah, Karawa and nearby villages, residents were seen celebrating the military’s success. They urged the army to sustain the tempo to curb recurrent attacks that have plagued Sabon Birni LGA.

Confirming the development, the member representing Sabon Birni in the Sokoto State House of Assembly, Alhaji Aminu Boza, said at least nine bodies of the attackers had been sighted, with search efforts continuing.

The Sokoto State Government also praised the troops for their swift action. In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Usman (retd.), the government said the military had averted what could have been a tragic assault on traders travelling from Tarah to the Sabon Birni weekly market.

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“The professionalism and courage displayed by our military personnel reaffirm their commitment to protecting lives and property,” Usman said.

He added that Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration would continue to support security agencies and called on residents to remain vigilant and share timely intelligence.

“Anyone aiding or abetting criminal activity will face the full weight of the law,” he warned.

Sabon Birni LGA has been one of the hardest-hit areas in Sokoto, suffering repeated attacks in recent months, particularly around Gatawa and neighbouring settlements. Residents say they hope the latest military success marks a turning point in efforts to restore peace to the region.