Residents of Kuchi town in Munya Local Government Area of Niger State erupted in celebration after a joint operation by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian military successfully neutralised approximately 45 bandits during a surprise raid.
The operation, carried out covertly in the early hours of Monday, June 2, 2025, marks a significant victory in the ongoing fight against armed groups terrorising parts of northwestern Nigeria.
Security sources revealed that the DSS, acting on credible intelligence, intercepted the movement of the armed group, which had been mobilised by notorious bandit leader Dogo Gide.
The attackers—numbering around 100 and armed with advanced weapons—had reportedly come from the Bilbis Forest in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, with others from parts of Kaduna State, to launch coordinated assaults on villages in the Kuchi area.
“Thanks to precise intelligence and rapid deployment, the DSS and supporting military units were able to preempt their advance and set up a successful ambush on the outskirts of Kuchi town,” a security source disclosed.
The ensuing gun battle led to the deaths of about 45 of the armed men, with many others reportedly injured. Several motorcycles and a cache of ammunition were also recovered during the operation.
Unfortunately, five DSS operatives sustained serious injuries in the crossfire and are currently receiving medical treatment.
“This is part of sustained pressure being mounted on Dogo Gide’s network,” the source added. “He has lost significant ground in recent months, and this latest loss will further weaken his ability to carry out large-scale attacks.”
Residents in Kuchi and neighbouring communities expressed relief and gratitude over the success of the operation.
Local sources said the region has endured repeated assaults in recent years and welcomed the renewed security efforts.
“This shows the security agencies are finally taking the fight to the bandits. We hope this momentum continues,” one community member stated.
The operation follows an earlier offensive in the same local government area that resulted in the elimination of over 50 armed criminals. Officials hope that these ongoing efforts will bring lasting peace to the region.