By Kingsley Omonobi
ABUJA — A combined force of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force and Police is currently engaged in a fierce gun battle with more than 100 suspected bandits operating around the Zamfara-Kebbi border.
Security sources said the operation involves troops of the Chief of Army Staff Intervention Battalion 3, under 8 Division of the Nigerian Army; the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma; and personnel of the Mobile Police Force.
The sources said the bandits emerged in large numbers from the Sangeko Gap in Zamfara State and were advancing towards Makuku in Kebbi State when intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets detected their movement.
According to the sources, the armed group was moving in three separate formations, with the suspected bandits reportedly travelling on motorcycles.
The development has heightened security concerns in communities around the affected areas, with some residents reportedly moving to safer locations as security forces intensify efforts to contain the advance.
The engagement involves coordinated ground operations by troops and police personnel, supported by air operations by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma.
The deployment is aimed at preventing the suspected bandits from gaining access to surrounding communities, disrupting their movement and stopping them from expanding their operations in the area.
Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and comply with directives from security authorities while the operation continues.
The ongoing engagement highlights the security challenges posed by armed groups operating across parts of the North-West, where security agencies have sustained operations aimed at disrupting criminal networks, rescuing kidnapped victims and restoring normalcy to affected communities.
As of the time of filing this report, the security agencies had not released an official casualty figure or confirmed the outcome of the ongoing operation. Further details are expected as the military and other security agencies provide updates.
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