DSS Confirms Killing Of Two Officers, 45 Terrorists In Niger State
The Department of State Services (DSS), troops of the Nigerian Army, and hybrid security forces have intercepted and killed at least 45 terrorists attempting to attack Iburu village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.
The terrorists, believed to be part of a network terrorising Shiroro communities, met resistance from the combined team of soldiers and hybrid forces.
According to a statement released by the DSS on Monday, security operatives engaged the assailants in a fierce gun battle.
Acting on credible intelligence, security operatives mobilised quickly on Friday evening after the DSS received a report of armed terrorists advancing on motorcycles toward Iburu and its neighbouring villages.
“Troops of the Nigerian Army and hybrid forces, backed by intelligence support from the DSS on Friday evening in Iburu village, Shiroro Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State, killed no less than 45 bandits terrorising the area,” the agency stated.
The DSS confirmed that it had alerted soldiers immediately after receiving intelligence that the terrorists, riding in groups on motorcycles, were en route to launch coordinated attacks.
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“The DSS on receiving intelligence that the terrorists riding several motorcycles were advancing to attack Iburu and neighbouring villages, quickly alerted soldiers on standby,” the statement added.
The community reportedly counted over 40 corpses believed to be those of the slain terrorists, along with dozens of destroyed motorcycles used in the assault attempt.
“A gunfight ensued with the troops killing at least 45 terrorists.
“The villagers said they counted at least 40 dead bodies believed to be those of the bandits. They also counted dozens of the bandits’ motorcycles destroyed during the gunfight,” the DSS disclosed.
Despite the operation’s success, the clash resulted in casualties among the joint security team.
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Two members of the hybrid forces were killed in the confrontation, while four others sustained serious gunshot wounds.
They are currently receiving treatment in a public hospital in the state capital.
“Two members of the hybrid forces fighting alongside soldiers lost their lives, while four others were said to be receiving treatment for serious gunshot injuries at a public hospital in the state capital,” the DSS noted.