Tactical operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), backed by the Nigerian Military, have killed at least 45 armed bandits in a well-coordinated offensive near Kuchi town, Munya Local Government Area of Niger State.
The early morning operation, which took place on Monday, 2nd June 2025, was described by security sources as a “surprise ambush” aimed at disrupting a planned mass attack orchestrated by notorious bandit kingpin, Dogo Gide, and his loyalists.
According to security sources, the bandits numbering over 100 had moved from Bilbis forest in Zamfara State and parts of Kaduna State after receiving a call from Gide to launch coordinated attacks on villages around Kuchi.
“In the early hours of Monday, bandits from Kaduna and Zamfara States, heavily armed and riding motorcycles, were advancing towards Kuchi town,” one of the sources confirmed.
“Our operatives, acting on actionable intelligence, intercepted them at the outskirts of the town and engaged them in a fierce gun battle.”
The operation, carried out with precision and stealth, led to the killing of 45 bandits, while others escaped with injuries. Recovered items included high-grade weapons, ammunition, and several motorcycles used for mobility.
Five DSS operatives reportedly sustained serious injuries during the exchange and are currently receiving treatment.
“This ambush is part of ongoing efforts to neutralise threats in vulnerable communities and prevent further bloodshed,” a senior security official stated. “It is a major blow to Dogo Gide’s network, especially after previous successful operations that cost them weapons, men, and territory.”
He added: “Serious heat has been turned on them, and we hope it will be sustained. We pray these new, proactive efforts by the SSS will help secure our communities from these deadly incursions.”
The offensive marks the second major dislodgement of bandits in Munya LGA in recent weeks.
