By Abdullahi Abdulrahman Chakwa, Gusau

Joint security operatives, working alongside local community members, have repelled coordinated attacks by bandits in parts of Zamfara State, killing four suspected criminals and recovering a motorcycle during separate operations.

A statement by the police spokesperson, DSP Yazid Abubakar, said the operations took place in Birnin Magaji and Bungudu Local Government Areas on Thursday.

DSP Yazid also said the operation left several bandits with gunshot injuries as security forces intensified efforts to curb criminal activities across the state.

According to Abubakar, the first incident occurred around 11:30 a.m, when bandits invaded farmlands on the outskirts of Nasarawa Godal town in Birnin Magaji Local Government Area.

The attackers reportedly opened fire on farmers in an apparent attempt to create panic and inflict casualties among residents working on their farms.

DSP Yazid said the Police personnel, supported by community members, quickly mobilised and confronted the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to retreat into nearby forests.

He also said traces of blood were found along the escape routes used by the fleeing bandits, suggesting that some of them sustained severe injuries during the exchange of fire.

“However, three members of the community were hit by gunfire during the incident and were immediately taken to hospital for medical treatment,” DSP Yazid said.

In a related development, another group of bandits attacked Galmar Hannu village in Kekun Waje District of Bungudu Local Government Area at about 1:30 p.m, shooting indiscriminately and causing panic.

The Joint Security Forces under Operation Fansan Yamma, stationed in the area, swiftly responded to distress calls and engaged the attackers in a fierce battle.

The Police spokesperson said the security operatives overpowered the attackers, killing four of them while others escaped into nearby forests with suspected gunshot injuries.

One motorcycle suspected to have been used by the fleeing bandits was also recovered at the scene.

The Commissioner of Police in Zamfara State, Ahmad Muhammad Bello, commended the officers and members of the communities for their bravery and cooperation, saying their support contributed significantly to the successful operation.

He also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security agencies, assuring the public that ongoing intelligence-driven operations would deny criminal elements any safe haven across the state.

Also, the Nigerian Army, on its social media handle said the gun duel lasted for about thirty minutes, adding that two security operatives were injured.

“After 30 minutes of gun battle between bandits and the local vigilantes in Nasarawa town, Bukkuyum axis of Zamfara, two men got injured, no life was lost… The locals stood their ground,” the army said.