Eight Bandits Killed by Own Explosive Device in Niger State

Eight Bandits Killed by Own Explosive Device in Niger State

At least eight suspected bandits have been killed after an improvised explosive device (IED) believed to have been planted for security forces detonated along a forest route in Niger State.

The incident occurred late Friday night along Lukope Road in Shiroro Local Government Area, specifically within the Kurebe–Kushaka axis, a corridor long associated with armed group movements.

According to counter-insurgency analyst, Zagazola Makama, the explosive device went off at about 8:30 p.m. when members of the group reportedly rode over it while travelling on motorcycles.

Sources said the IED was suspected to have been planted by the bandits themselves as a trap for advancing troops but detonated prematurely.

“The explosion occurred as the bandits were transiting the route, leading to the instant death of about eight of them and the injury of several others,” a source familiar with the development disclosed.

The affected group was believed to be linked to notorious bandit leader, Dogo Gide and was reportedly heading towards the Lukope area before the incident occurred.

Following the blast, troops under Operation Fansan Yamma, Sector 1, swiftly moved to the scene and intensified patrols across the area to prevent further security threats.

However, the development has heightened anxiety among residents of nearby communities, including Kushaka, Kurebe and Gbato, amid fears of possible retaliatory attacks by other members of the group.

Local stakeholders have called for increased security presence and proactive measures to reassure residents and maintain calm in the affected areas.

Security sources said surveillance and patrol operations have since been stepped up along vulnerable routes as authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.