Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 223 Light Battalion in Zuru, Kebbi State, have successfully thwarted a large-scale attack by over 400 armed bandits on Ribah town in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area.

The attempted invasion, which took place on Wednesday night, led to a fierce gun battle between the soldiers and the heavily armed attackers. According to reports, dozens of bandits were killed in the exchange, while others fled, some carrying the bodies of their dead comrades.

In a statement on Thursday, Yahaya Sarki, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Kebbi State Governor, confirmed that several of the attackers were neutralized, with many weapons recovered at the scene.

Alhaji AbdulRahman Zagga, Director of Security at the Kebbi State Cabinet Office, also commended the gallantry of the Nigerian Army. He noted that although the intense gunfire initially caused panic among residents, calm had since returned to Ribah.

“The bandits came in overwhelming numbers, but thanks to the superior tactics, courage, and firepower of our troops, the attack was repelled. The Nigerian Air Force also played a vital role, delivering precise airstrikes that dealt heavy blows to the fleeing criminals,” Zagga stated.

He added that intelligence suggested this same group of bandits was responsible for recent attacks in neighbouring Niger State before crossing into Kebbi to launch another assault.

“This outcome underscores the effectiveness of the proactive security measures put in place by Governor Nasir Idris to safeguard lives and property across the state,” Zagga said.

The successful operation has once again highlighted the commitment of security forces to flushing out criminal elements threatening rural communities in Nigeria’s Northwest.