Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation MESA, in collaboration with other security agencies, have repelled an attack by bandits in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State.
The operation, led by the 3 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, was launched following a tip-off on the movement of bandits around Ungwan Tudu, Ungwan Tsamiya, and Goron Dutse axis of Shanono at about 5:00 p.m. on November 1, 2025.
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According to a statement signed by Captain Babatunde Zubairu, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, the troops swiftly responded and engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle, successfully pushing them out of the area. The statement confirmed that the armed men, who arrived on motorcycles, sustained several casualties during the encounter.
Nineteen bandits were reportedly neutralized, while troops recovered several motorcycles and two mobile phones from the fleeing criminals. Unfortunately, two soldiers and one local vigilante lost their lives in the operation.
Further operations are said to be ongoing in the general area to ensure the safety of residents and prevent future attacks, particularly in communities vulnerable to cattle rustling.
Brigadier General Ahmed Tukur, Commander of the 3 Brigade, reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining peace in Kano State, pledging continued collaboration with other security agencies.
The Nigerian Army also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movement to security authorities.
