The Nigerian Army has confirmed that armed bandits ambushed its military base in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State on Tuesday, resulting in casualties among troops.
In a statement posted on Facebook on Wednesday, the army said the attack was part of a coordinated, three-pronged assault that also targeted locations in neighboring Kaduna State. Bandits reportedly struck forward operating bases in Kwanar Dutse, Mairiga, and Boka in Niger, as well as Aungwan Turai in Chikun LGA, Kaduna.
According to the army, land and air components launched counter-attacks, “eliminating scores of bandits” during the engagements. While the army did not disclose the number of soldiers killed, it confirmed that four officers were injured and are currently receiving treatment for gunshot wounds.
“Sadly, some gallant warriors paid the supreme price in the day-long battles,” the statement read.
Reports from local sources suggest that at least 20 soldiers were killed in the attack near Kwanar Dutse.
The ambush occurred just hours after bandits killed about 15 civilians in Tofa village, Magami district, Gusau LGA of Zamfara State, underscoring the persistent threat of bandit violence across northern Nigeria.
