By Muhammad Mamman
Soldiers from the 22 Armoured Brigade, stationed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Babana in Niger State’s Borgu Local Government Area, have neutralised two armed bandits and seized a significant haul of weapons and ammunition.
Captain Stephen Nwankwo, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the brigade, announced the success in a statement released Thursday in Ilorin. He revealed that the operation unfolded at approximately 2:50 a.m. when alert troops engaged a group of armed bandits attempting to infiltrate the Babana axis.
Outgunned by the brigade’s superior firepower, the criminals were forced to retreat in chaos. A subsequent pursuit along their escape route led to the neutralisation of two bandits on the outskirts of Babana town.
The operation yielded a substantial recovery, including one AK-47 rifle, four fully loaded AK-47 magazines containing 60 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 323 rounds of 7.62x54mm ammunition, and a mobile phone.
However, the victory came at a cost, with one officer and one soldier sustaining gunshot wounds to their legs. Both are receiving treatment and responding positively, Captain Nwankwo confirmed.
The remains of the neutralised bandits have been handed over to the relevant authorities for further action.
Brigadier-General Ezra Barkins, Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, praised the troops for their vigilance, resilience, and unwavering commitment. He reaffirmed the brigade’s resolve to intensify operations, vowing to use all lawful means to eliminate criminal elements and protect the lives and property of law-abiding citizens in the region.
