17 Soldiers Dead, 10 Wounded in Fierce Niger State Battle
A devastating gun battle between the Nigerian Army and suspected bandits/terrorists in Niger State on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, has resulted in the deaths of 17 soldiers and injuries to 10 others. The fierce three-hour engagement took place primarily in the Kwanar Dutse Forest within the Bangi community, Mariga Local Government Area.
Details of the Operation
The Nigerian Army, working with the Air Component of the Nigerian Air Force, launched a "deliberate joint operation" based on credible intelligence. Their objective was to intercept an estimated 300 armed bandits who were attempting a night-time movement toward Kwatankoro Forest. According to intelligence reports, these terrorists were likely planning coordinated attacks on nearby communities or seeking refuge from ongoing military operations in neighboring Zamfara State.
The Intense Firefight and Aftermath
During the operation, troops engaged the armed group in an intense firefight that lasted over three hours. Following the ground engagement, the Nigerian Air Force conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists' escape routes, delivering heavy bombardments on identified enemy positions. While the exact number of enemy casualties remains unconfirmed, "multiple blood trails along their escape routes presumably indicate significant enemy losses."
Casualties and Official Confirmation
Tragically, 17 Nigerian soldiers lost their lives in the confrontation, and 10 others sustained varying degrees of injury. The wounded are currently receiving treatment at a military medical facility. The incident was officially confirmed by the Nigerian Army's Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele. The Chairman of the Mariga Local Government Area, Abbas Kasuwa Garba, also corroborated the attacks.
Leadership Responds
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, has extended his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and ordered that the injured receive the best possible medical care. Further operations are underway to fully assess the extent of the damage inflicted on the terrorists.
This latest incident underscores the persistent security challenges posed by armed banditry and terrorism in northern Nigeria, particularly in states like Niger and Kaduna.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News
