At least 14 Nigerian soldiers have been killed and 10 others injured following a confrontation with over 300 armed gunmen in Niger State’s Mariga council area. The military launched a pre-emptive operation on Tuesday, June 24, executing precision strikes and deploying ground troops to counter the planned attack on nearby villages. Army spokesperson Appolonia Anele confirmed on Wednesday the deaths and injuries, noting that the operation inflicted “significant enemy losses.”
The gunmen were reportedly operating from the Kwanar Dutse Forest, a known stronghold for armed gangs in the region. These groups, often composed of former pastoralists, have been involved in years-long violent conflict with farming communities across northern Nigeria. The army’s engagement underscores the escalating threat of rural banditry and the continued use of abandoned forest reserves as operational bases by armed groups.