Nigerian troops from the 223 Light Battalion based in Zuru have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by over 400 heavily armed bandits on Ribah town, located in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The armed confrontation, which erupted on Wednesday, ended in victory for the military, with significant casualties inflicted on the attackers.
According to a statement released by the Director of Security in Kebbi State, Abdulrahman Zagga, the bandits stormed Ribah in large numbers but were met with fierce resistance from the troops. A prolonged gun battle ensued, during which dozens of the attackers were neutralized. While some of the wounded bandits were reportedly carried away by their comrades, many others were left behind along with a cache of weapons and ammunition.
Zagga praised the courage, tactical discipline, and unwavering resolve of the soldiers who stood their ground against overwhelming odds. He also highlighted the critical support provided by the Nigerian Air Force, which launched targeted airstrikes on the retreating bandits, dealing further blows to the criminal group and helping restore calm to the area. Although the initial confrontation sparked panic among residents, the swift and decisive response from the Armed Forces helped stabilize the town and return it to normalcy.
The Kebbi security chief revealed that intelligence suggests the bandits involved in the Ribah attack may be part of the same group that recently terrorized parts of Niger State before crossing into Kebbi. Their latest attempt was thwarted due to preemptive security strategies and surveillance measures championed by Governor Nasir Idris, who has made security a top priority in the state.
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In a separate but related encounter, troops stationed at Dukku Barracks also foiled an attempted cattle raid in Mera, located in Augie Local Government Area. The attackers, believed to be the same network of armed bandits, were forced to flee after encountering stiff resistance from the Nigerian Army, who successfully defended the livestock and secured the community.
Governor Nasir Idris expressed his profound gratitude to the Nigerian Army and all security operatives involved in both successful operations. He commended their bravery and affirmed his administration’s continued commitment to equipping and supporting the military, especially those deployed in frontline communities vulnerable to insurgent and bandit attacks.
These recent victories mark a significant step forward in the fight against banditry and rural insecurity in Kebbi State. As the Nigerian military continues its counter-offensive operations across the region, residents are beginning to regain confidence in the government’s ability to protect lives and property against criminal threats.
