A major security operation in the Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State has resulted in the deaths of 45 bandits, though the Nigerian Army suffered the loss of three personnel, including a captain.

The clash, which occurred on Friday, was confirmed by Nasir Mua’zu, the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, in an official briefing on Saturday.

Key Details of the Encounter
* Casualties: 45 terrorists were killed. The Army lost Captain Paul Hassan and two soldiers.
* High-Value Targets: Among the dead are Alti (the second-in-command and nephew to notorious kingpin Adamu Alieru) and another prominent bandit leader known as Damale.
* The Catalyst: The violence began on March 5 when bandits from Zamfara invaded Alhazawa village to steal livestock. Local residents and repentant bandits successfully repelled them, killing four attackers and recovering all stolen cattle.
* The Ambush: Seeking retaliation, a larger group of bandits returned on March 6. However, they intercepted an Army unit from the Dan Ali Forward Operating Base, leading to a fierce confrontation where the military eventually overwhelmed the criminal group.

Government Response
Commissioner Mua’zu, speaking on behalf of Governor Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda, praised the military's courage and sacrifice. He noted that the intervention saved numerous lives and disrupted the operations of major criminal cells in the state.

"Our security forces remain alert and will continue to pursue these criminals wherever they go. We will not rest until peace is fully restored to every corner of Katsina State." — Nasir Mua’zu, Commissioner for Internal Security.