Abuja, Nigeria – June 4, 2025
In a major counterterrorism breakthrough, tactical operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), backed by the Nigerian military, killed no fewer than 45 bandits in a surprise ambush near Kuchi town in Munya Local Government Area of Niger State.
The stealth operation, carried out in the early hours of Monday, June 2, targeted fighters loyal to notorious bandit kingpin Dogo Gide, who reportedly masterminded the planned assault on several communities in the area.
Security sources disclosed that intelligence gathered through renewed covert surveillance led to the identification of the attackers’ movement. The heavily armed bandits—estimated at over 100—had converged from Bilbis forest in Zamfara State and parts of Kaduna State, en route to launch coordinated attacks on vulnerable villages.
However, DSS operatives intercepted and engaged them on the outskirts of Kuchi before they could strike. A fierce gun battle ensued, resulting in heavy casualties among the assailants. In addition to the 45 confirmed killed, several others sustained gunshot wounds and fled, abandoning weapons and motorcycles.
Five DSS personnel were seriously injured in the encounter and are currently receiving medical treatment.
“This ambush marks a critical blow to Dogo Gide’s network,” a senior security official told reporters under condition of anonymity. “It follows weeks of strategic disruption, during which over 50 of his fighters were previously neutralised.”
The source praised the ongoing coordination between intelligence and military forces, adding that the continued offensive has significantly weakened the bandits’ stronghold in the region.
Residents of Munya LGA have expressed relief following the operation, which comes amid increasing hope that federal efforts are turning the tide against years of insecurity in Niger State.
The DSS and military authorities have yet to issue an official statement, but sources say further operations are underway to consolidate recent gains and prevent regrouping by criminal elements.
