AfriPulse
Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation MESA have neutralised 19 bandits in a major security operation carried out over the weekend in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State. The operation, which took place on Sunday evening, was aimed at flushing out criminal elements terrorising rural communities in the area.
According to a statement issued by Captain Babatunde Zubairu, spokesperson for the 3 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, the coordinated offensive was launched around the Ungwan Tudu, Ungwan Tsamiya, and Goron Dutse axis of Shanono. The operation, conducted in collaboration with other security agencies, resulted in a heavy exchange of gunfire that left 19 bandits dead.
However, the encounter also claimed the lives of two soldiers and one local vigilante member, who were said to have paid the supreme sacrifice while defending their fatherland.
The troops had reportedly laid an ambush for the bandits, who were travelling on motorcycles and attempting to infiltrate the area around 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Zubairu explained that the troops deployed at Tsaure were the first to make contact with the armed group, which led to a fierce firefight. “Our troops successfully pursued the bandits, neutralising 19 of them in the process. Several motorcycles and two mobile phones were recovered from the criminals,” he said.
He noted that the joint forces, comprising soldiers of the 3 Brigade and personnel from other security agencies, worked in close coordination to dislodge the bandits from their hideouts.
“The operation was part of ongoing efforts to restore peace and security to vulnerable communities in Shanono and its environs, which have been prone to cattle rustling and other criminal activities,” Zubairu added.
The Army spokesperson further stated that mop-up operations were continuing in the area to ensure that fleeing bandits do not regroup or pose renewed threats to residents.
He assured the people of Kano State that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with sister security agencies, remains resolute in its mission to protect lives and property.
“We urge citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security formation. The Nigerian Army is committed to ensuring lasting peace and stability in the state,” Captain Zubairu emphasised.
Read also: Kano communities seek security reinforcement over bandit threats
Residents of Shanono have reportedly expressed relief following the operation, describing it as a significant step toward curbing the menace of banditry in their communities. Some locals, however, called for sustained military presence to prevent a resurgence of attacks, especially in remote villages.
Operation MESA, a collaborative security initiative involving the Nigerian Army, Police, and other agencies, has been active across several northern states in recent months, targeting bandit groups responsible for kidnappings, cattle rustling, and violent attacks.
The latest success in Shanono underscores the Nigerian military’s intensified efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating in the Northwest region, even as authorities continue to appeal for public cooperation in the ongoing fight against insecurity.
Source: Businessday.ng | Read the Full Story…
