Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised 45 suspected bandits during a fierce gun battle in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State.
However, the military operation recorded casualties, as an Army officer, Captain Paul Hassan, and two soldiers were killed during the encounter.
The clash occurred on March 6, 2026, when troops attached to the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Dan Ali engaged heavily armed bandits who were reportedly moving toward Musawa Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mua’zu, said the bandits had earlier attacked Alhazawa village in Musawa LGA on March 5, attempting to rustle cattle.
According to him, members of the community, with support from some repentant bandits in the area, resisted the attack, killing four of the assailants and recovering the stolen cattle.
He explained that the bandits later regrouped and returned the following day in what appeared to be a revenge mission.
Mua’zu said while advancing towards Musawa through Maidabino A ward, the attackers encountered troops stationed at the Army’s Forward Operating Base in Dan Ali.
A fierce exchange of gunfire followed, resulting in the death of 45 bandits.
“What followed was an intense and fierce battle. The Army successfully neutralised all 45 bandits. However, the victory came at a cost. Captain Paul Hassan and two other soldiers lost their lives in the encounter,” the commissioner said.
He disclosed that Alti, a nephew and second-in-command to notorious bandit leader Adamu Alieru, and another senior bandit identified as Damale, were among those killed in the operation.
The commissioner commended the bravery and sacrifice of the troops involved, describing their actions as heroic and crucial in protecting communities from armed criminal groups.
He added that the successful operation disrupted bandit activities in the area and saved many lives.
Mua’zu also extended the Katsina State Government’s condolences to the families of the slain soldiers, acknowledging their ultimate sacrifice in the fight against banditry.
He reiterated that security forces would continue to pursue armed groups responsible for violence in the state until peace is fully restored.
Francis Sardauna
