Men of a Joint Security Task Force (JTF) in Niger State have neutralised an unspecified number of bandits in a coordinated action at the terrorists’ enclave on Anaba Hill, Magama Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement on Monday, Wasiu Abiodun, Niger police spokesperson, said the JTF, comprising police officers, local vigilantes and military men, killed scores of bandits, recovered rustled cattle, and rescued 20 kidnapped victims.

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The raid was a sequel to the February 12, 2022 attack on some villages in the local government area, during which the terrorists reportedly rustled many cattle.

“A tactical team of the command sent for reinforcement to the area, and military personnel with the vigilante engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle along the Ibeto cattle route,” said Abiodun.

He also said that the gunshots lasted nearly two hours and that the terrorists attempted to escape.

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“Consequently, scores of bandits were neutralised and the large rustled cattle were recovered while about 20 abducted victims regained freedom,” Abiodun said.

During the battle, an AK-47 magazine containing 30 live ammunition cartridges was recovered. Another Ak-47 rifle with 13 rounds of live ammunition was also found hidden between rocks. Other recoveries include seven handsets and one Honda motorcycle.

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According to Abiodun, the force operatives involved in the action acted on intelligence.