Victory for security forces as 45 bandits loyal to Dogo Gide killed in Niger

In a significant breakthrough in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, security operatives have eliminated at least 45 bandits loyal to the infamous warlord Dogo Gide during a joint operation in Munya Local Government Area of Niger State.

The operation, conducted by operatives of the State Security Service (SSS) in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, was carried out on Monday after credible intelligence revealed the terrorists’ plans to launch coordinated attacks on several communities.

According to reports from security-focused outlet Zagazola Makama, the raid targeted the bandits as they gathered to mobilize an assault on vulnerable villages—including Kuchi, which was attacked just last week.

Thanks to swift coordination and intelligence gathering, the operatives were able to strike before the bandits could carry out their plans, dealing a major blow to one of the region’s most dangerous terror networks.

During last week’s attack on Kuchi, bandits suspected to be foot soldiers of Mr Gide burnt a joint forces’ camp and rustled scores of livestock. The SSS and the army engaged them in gunfights, killing many.

In this latest incident, the terrorists, taking advantage of ungoverned forest reserves, moved from Bilbis forest in Maru LGA of Zamfara State and some parts of Kaduna on the invitation of Mr Gide.

“In the early hours of Monday, 2nd June 2025, bandits from Kaduna and Zamfara States, numbering about 100, heavily armed with sophisticated weapons, advanced towards Kuchi town in Munya LGA,” a source told Zagazola Makama.

“However, operatives launched a surprise attack and waylaid the bandits on the outskirts of Kuchi town. The operatives engaged the fleeing dissidents in a gun duel, which saw to the elimination of the bandits, with several injured and motorcycles and ammunition recovered.”

However, the report said five SSS officers sustained injuries and are currently hospitalised.

For years, Munya LGA has been invaded by different groups, including the late Ali Kawaje group. They sacked many villages, including Kachiwe, Chibani, Injita, and Sarkin Pawa.