Authorities of the Nigerian Army have confirmed that 17 soldiers were killed during a deadly terrorist attack on its military base near Bangi community in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State on Tuesday. The assault, which began in the early hours of the day, also left ten other soldiers injured in what the Army described as a prolonged and intense firefight.

Lt. Col. Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, in a statement on Wednesday, said the operation was launched based on credible intelligence, leading to a direct confrontation with about 300 armed bandits in Kwanar Dutse Forest. Amend said the criminals had attempted a night-time transit towards Kwatankoro Forest, where they were reportedly planning coordinated attacks on surrounding communities or looking for a safe haven to evade the pressure from the Army’s operations in Zamfara State.

She said however, their movement and actions were effectively disrupted by troops who engaged them in a fierce firefight that lasted over three hours. The DAPR said the Nigerian Air Force also supported the operation by conducting precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ escape routes. According to her, further operation is ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the damage inflicted on the terrorists.

Anele expressed deep regret over the loss of the military personnel. She said the Chief of Army Staff, Lt- Gen. Oluwafemi Oluyede, has extended his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and assured that the best care is being provided for the injured.