DSS, Army kill 50 bandits, rescue kidnapped victims in Niger

The Department of State Services, DSS, and the Nigerian Army have killed more than 50 bandits and rescued kidnapped victims in Kumbashi village, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.

The operation, which took place on Tuesday, followed an attempt by about 300 armed men to invade the area and attack a DSS camp.

Security operatives engaged the attackers in a gun duel, forcing them to retreat after suffering heavy casualties. Several bandits reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds.

Seven kidnapped victims and rustled cattle were recovered during the operation.

Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Mohammed Sarkin-Daji, commended the security agencies for the success, describing it as a major boost in the fight against banditry.

The development comes days after DSS operatives arrested Abubakar Abba, leader of Mahmuda, a notorious terror group, in Wawa, Niger State.

Residents of Kumbashi said the operation restored confidence that security agencies are regaining control in areas affected by banditry.