By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation MESA under the 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have successfully repelled a bandits’ attack on Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State, neutralizing 19 of the assailants and recovering several motorcycles and mobile phones during a fierce gun battle.
According to an official statement signed by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, Captain Babatunde Zubairu, the operation was launched following credible intelligence on the movement of bandits around Ungwan Tudu, Ungwan Tsamiya, and Goron Dutse axis of Shanono at about 5:00 p.m. on November 1, 2025. Acting swiftly on the tip-off, troops of the 3 Brigade, supported by other security agencies, engaged the bandits in a heavy exchange of gunfire, forcing them to flee the area after sustaining multiple casualties.
Captain Zubairu disclosed that the bandits, who stormed the area on motorcycles, were intercepted by troops deployed at Tsaure, leading to a fierce encounter in which the soldiers overpowered the attackers. “The gallant troops successfully pursued the bandits and recovered several motorcycles and two mobile phones from the criminals. It was confirmed that 19 bandits were neutralized during the encounter,” he stated.
However, the Nigerian Army also recorded casualties during the operation, as two gallant soldiers and one local vigilante paid the supreme sacrifice while defending the community.
The Army spokesman noted that clearance operations are still ongoing across the general area to eliminate remaining threats and prevent further attacks on vulnerable settlements that have been frequent targets of cattle rustling and other criminal activities. He urged residents to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies for timely action.
Meanwhile, the Commander, 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Tukur, has reassured residents of Kano State of the Army’s unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and protecting law-abiding citizens. He emphasized that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with sister security services and local vigilante groups, remains determined to restore lasting security and stability across the region.
Brigadier General Tukur commended the courage and professionalism of the troops involved in the operation and reaffirmed that the military would continue to sustain offensive actions against criminal elements threatening the peace of Kano State and its environs.
