Troops Kill 65 Bandits in Zamfara Operation

Nigeria’s military has killed more than 65 members of criminal gangs known locally as bandits, a security report said on Sunday.

The operation took place in Zamfara State, where police on Saturday confirmed a mass kidnapping earlier in the week.

Police said armed gangs carried out raids on several communities on Thursday night, resulting in a “mass” abduction of villagers, although no official figures were provided.

Residents, however, said about seven people were killed and around 150 others abducted when large numbers of heavily armed men attacked six villages in Bukkuyum Local Government Area.

Bandits Kill Over 30 in Zamfara — A map of Zamfara. Credit:Premuimtimes

Police said a manhunt has been launched for the attackers.

The security report said “at least 65 bandits” were killed during a seven-hour ground and air military operation.

According to the report, the operation took place in Tsafe district, about 200 kilometres from the communities where the kidnappings occurred.

Zamfara State is among several states in northwestern and central Nigeria facing persistent insecurity linked to armed criminal gangs.

Author

Jimisayo Opanuga

Jimisayo Opanuga is a web writer in the Digital Department at News Central TV, where she covers African and international stories. Her reporting focuses on social issues, health, justice, and the environment, alongside general-interest news. She is passionate about telling stories that inform the public and give voice to underreported communities.