Soldiers Killed as Troops Repel Bandit Attacks on Military Bases in Kaduna, Niger

Several soldiers have been killed while repelling a series of coordinated attacks by armed bandits on military bases in Kaduna and Niger states, the Nigerian Army (NA) has confirmed.

In a statement on Wednesday, the army said the assaults took place on Tuesday, targeting forward operating bases in Kwanar Dutse, Mairiga, and Boka in Niger State, as well as Aungwan Turai in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Describing the incident as a “three-pronged attack” on its formations, the army noted that troops responded swiftly, with both land and air components engaging the attackers in a fierce counter-offensive.

“In response, troops of the land and air components swiftly launched several counter-attacks that neutralised scores of the bandits during fierce engagements,” the statement read.

However, the military acknowledged the loss of some personnel during the battles.

“Some gallant warriors paid the supreme price,” the army said.

Additionally, four other soldiers sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving medical attention.

The Nigerian Army commended the troops for their bravery and perseverance throughout what it described as “day-long battles”.

It added that clearance operations are ongoing in the affected areas to track down fleeing attackers and restore peace.

“Clearance operations are ongoing in the surrounding areas to root out fleeing bandits and restore normalcy,” the statement added.