Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation MESA, under the 3 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, have successfully repelled a bandits’ attack in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State, preventing what could have been a deadly assault on several communities.
According to a statement issued on Sunday, November 2, 2025, by Captain Babatunde Zubairu, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the troops responded swiftly to credible intelligence about the movement of bandits around the Ungwan Tudu, Ungwan Tsamiya, and Goron Dutse areas at about 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 1.
The statement said the troops, supported by other security agencies, engaged the armed bandits in a heavy exchange of gunfire, forcing them to retreat after sustaining heavy casualties. Nineteen of the attackers were reportedly neutralized during the encounter.
“The gallant troops swiftly responded to reports of bandits’ movement in the area. Our troops deployed at Tsaure came in contact with the bandits, leading to an exchange of fire. The troops successfully pursued the criminals and recovered several motorcycles and two mobile phones,” the statement read.
However, the army confirmed that two soldiers and one member of a local vigilante group lost their lives in the operation.
Captain Zubairu further noted that follow-up operations are ongoing in the general area to prevent further incursions and to safeguard communities that have been frequently targeted for cattle rustling and other criminal activities.
The Commander, 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Tukur, assured residents of the Army’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across Kano State in collaboration with sister security agencies.
“The Nigerian Army urges citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. We are committed to protecting all law-abiding citizens and ensuring lasting peace in the region,” Brigadier General Tukur stated.
The Army also expressed appreciation to the public for their continued cooperation and support in the ongoing fight against banditry and other forms of insecurity in the state.
