Troops of the Nigerian Army have killed 45 bandits during a fierce gun battle in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State, but lost a captain and two soldiers in the operation.

The development was disclosed in a statement by the state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, on Saturday.

According to the statement, the operation followed credible intelligence gathered by security personnel.

Among those killed was Alti, the nephew and second-in-command to notorious bandit leader Adamu Alieru, as well as another top bandit identified as Damale.

The statement said the violence began when bandits from Zamfara State, armed with sophisticated weapons and riding motorcycles, attacked Alhazawa village in Musawa Local Government Area on March 5 to steal cattle.

Community members and repentant bandits in the area resisted the attackers, killing four bandits and recovering the stolen cattle.

However, the criminals reportedly returned the following day in larger numbers seeking revenge.

While heading toward Musawa LGA near Maidabino A ward, they encountered soldiers attached to the Army’s Forward Operating Base in Dan Ali, leading to an intense gun battle.

“The Army successfully neutralised all 45 bandits. However, the victory came at a cost. Captain Paul Hassan and two other soldiers lost their lives in the encounter,” the statement said.

The Katsina State government, on behalf of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, commended the troops' bravery and extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers.

Officials said security forces remain on high alert and will continue operations to restore peace across the state.