Nigerian Troops Kill 45 Bandits in Niger State Ambush: Report

Nigerian military forces, supported by hybrid units and the Department of State Services (DSS), killed 45 armed bandits during a gun battle in the north-central state of Niger, according to a conflict monitor report shared with the United Nations and reviewed by AFP on Monday.

The ambush operation occurred on Friday evening in Iburu village, located within the Shiroro Local Government Area, and also resulted in the deaths of two Nigerian soldiers. The incident was reported on Monday.

According to the monitor:

“Military troops, supported by hybrid forces and the Department of State Services (DSS), launched an ambush against armed bandits… A gun battle ensued, resulting in the deaths of 45 bandits and two soldiers.”

This marks the latest escalation in a series of operations targeting the armed criminal gangs—commonly referred to as “bandits”—who have taken hold in Nigeria’s rural areas, fuelled by poverty and long-standing government neglect.

Recent Offensive Actions

The operation in Iburu followed intelligence warnings of an imminent attack in the area. Though the Nigerian military has not officially commented, state broadcaster NTA confirmed DSS involvement in the operation.

Strategic Shift in Military Communication

Previously, the Nigerian armed forces frequently publicised military successes, sometimes facing criticism for exaggerated claims. However, military intelligence sources have indicated a change in approach, citing that publicity has inadvertently alerted jihadist and bandit groups to their operational tactics.

“The military was changing tack after realising publicising their gains was keeping jihadists and bandits abreast of their operations,” a security source told AFP.

Banditry Crisis Continues

The armed gangs continue to raid and loot villages, extort locals, and carry out mass kidnappings for ransom.

A particularly harrowing recent event occurred in Zamfara State, where 33 kidnap victims were murdered by their captors in spite of ransom payments. This incident underscores the rising brutality and impunity of these groups across Nigeria’s northwestern and central regions.

The Nigerian government continues to grapple with restoring order and protecting rural communities amid a deepening security crisis.