NIGERIA: Troops Repel Bandits’ Attack In Kano’s Shanono, Neutralise 19

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation MESA, in Kano State have successfully repelled an attempted bandit attack on Shanono Local Government Area, neutralising 19 armed bandits and recovering several motorcycles and mobile phones in the process.

The incident occurred around 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, following credible intelligence on the movement of bandits around the Ungwan Tudu, Ungwan Tsamiya, and Goron Dutse areas of Shanono.

According to a statement signed by Captain Babatunde Zubairu, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, the troops acted swiftly to prevent the assailants from infiltrating the community.

Zubairu explained that troops from 3 Brigade, supported by other security agencies, engaged the bandits in a heavy gun battle, forcing them to flee after sustaining significant casualties.

“The intervention commenced when gallant troops swiftly responded to reports of bandits’ movement in the area. Own troops deployed at Tsaure came in contact with the bandits which led to an exchange of fire. Our troops successfully pursued the bandits and recovered several motorcycles and two mobile phones from the criminals,” the statement read in part.

While confirming the death of 19 bandits, the Army spokesman said two soldiers and one local vigilante lost their lives in the encounter. He added that operations were still ongoing in the area to prevent further attacks and safeguard communities prone to cattle rustling.

“The Nigerian Army urges citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities,” Zubairu stated.

He further quoted the Commander, 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Tukur, as assuring residents of the Army’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in Kano State in collaboration with sister services and other security agencies.

Residents of Shanono and neighbouring communities have since commended the troops for their swift response, which prevented what could have been a major assault on the area.

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its resolve to sustain the tempo of operations to ensure that criminal elements have no haven in Kano State and its environs.