Several soldiers lost their lives on Tuesday, June 24, after armed bandits attacked forward operating bases in Kaduna and Niger States.

The Nigerian military confirmed that the attackers stormed the bases in a coordinated three-pronged assault. The affected areas include Aungwan Turai in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Also Kwanar Dutse, Mairiga, and Boka in Niger State were attacked.

According to a statement from the Defence Headquarters, “On 24 June 2025, forward operating bases in the general areas of Kwanar Dutse, Mairiga and Boka, Niger State, and Aungwan Turai, Chikun LGA, Kaduna State, were attacked by bandits in a 3-pronged attack.”

The army confirmed that both ground and air troops quickly responded with counterattacks.

Bandits Neutralised, But Casualties Recorded

In their swift response, troops launched coordinated airstrikes and land operations, killing several of the attackers.

“Land and air component troops launched several counter-attacks that eliminated scores of bandits in the encounters,” the military said.

Despite the success of the counterattacks, the army admitted it suffered losses during the confrontations.

“Sadly, some gallant warriors paid the supreme price in the day-long battles,” the statement read.

Later, the military high command admitted it lost 17 soldiers in the attack. Four soldiers who sustained gunshot injuries are currently receiving medical care. It estimates that the attacking bandits numbered about 300.

Troops Continue Search for Escaping Bandits

The military added that troops are continuing clearance operations in the surrounding areas to capture the fleeing attackers.

The Defence Headquarters assured Nigerians that efforts will not stop until those responsible are neutralised or brought to justice.

The recent attack is one of many in the ongoing battle against armed criminal groups operating in northern Nigeria.

Authorities have urged residents in affected communities to remain calm and report suspicious activities to security forces.

The military did not name the group responsible for the attack, but it is believed to be one of the many heavily armed bandit groups active in the region.

The Defence Headquarters promised to give further updates as more information becomes available.

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