The Nigerian Army says its troops have killed 19 bandits during a gun battle in the Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State.
According to reports, the armed men were moving around Ungwan Tudu in the Goron Dutse axis of Shanono on November 1.
In a statement, Babatunde Zubairu, Assistant Director of Public Relations at the 3 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, said troops, acting on intelligence, teamed up with other security agencies to intercept the bandits in the area.
Zubairu said the personnel launched a raid on the location, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire.
During the operation, he said the gunmen were “neutralised”, but unfortunately, two soldiers and one vigilante lost their lives.
“It was further confirmed that the bandits who sustained several casualties arrived on motorcycles,” the statement reads.
“The intervention commenced when gallant troops swiftly responded to reports of bandits’ movements in the area.
“Own troops deployed at Tsaure came in contact with the bandits which led to exchange of fire where own troops successfully pursued the bandits and recovered several motorcycles and 2 mobile phones from the criminals.
“It was confirmed that 19 bandits were neutralized during the encounter. Regrettably, 2 gallant soldiers and one local vigilante paid the supreme sacrifice.
“Additionally, further operations are ongoing in the general area as efforts are made to protect vulnerable communities who have been prone to cattle rustling from the bandits.
“The Nigerian Army urges citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.”