Nigerian military forces have confirmed the death of several bandits and soldiers following intense gun battles in parts of Kaduna and Niger States on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. The Nigerian Army Headquarters disclosed the development in an official statement released on their verified X (formerly Twitter) handle early Wednesday.
The clashes erupted after armed bandits launched coordinated attacks on multiple communities in Kwanar Dutse Mairiga and Boka areas of Niger State, as well as Aungwan Turai in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Eyewitnesses reported hearing sustained gunfire and explosions as military ground troops and air support teams engaged the assailants in day-long battles.
According to the Army statement, both land and air components of Operation Whirl Punch were swiftly deployed to the affected locations, neutralizing scores of bandits in separate counter-offensives. The coordinated response reportedly saved several civilian lives and repelled the attackers from gaining control of the targeted communities.
Tragically, the Army confirmed that “some gallant warriors paid the supreme price” during the confrontations. While the exact number of soldier casualties was not disclosed, four injured troops are currently receiving treatment for gunshot wounds at a military medical facility.
Residents of nearby villages remain on edge, fearing possible reprisal attacks from fleeing insurgents. Military presence in the affected areas has since been reinforced, with surveillance helicopters continuing to patrol the region.
Defence analysts have warned that the twin-state assault underscores the escalating boldness of armed bandit groups in the North-Central and North-West zones, urging the Federal Government to intensify counter-terrorism operations across known flashpoints.
The Nigerian Army assured the public that more updates will follow as mop-up operations continue across the battle zones.
