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DSS, Military Neutralise 45 Bandits in Niger State Ambush Operation.
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Dogo Gide’s plan to attack Kuchi foiled by intelligence.
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5 DSS operatives injured, motorcycles and weapons recovered.
Security forces have recorded a major victory in the fight against terrorism, as operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), in collaboration with the military, eliminated approximately 45 bandits near Kuchi town, Munya Local Government Area of Niger State.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the covert operation, carried out in the early hours of Monday, June 2, 2025, was aimed at thwarting a coordinated assault on surrounding villages. Intelligence sources revealed that the notorious bandit kingpin, Dogo Gide, had mobilised over 100 heavily armed fighters from Bilbis forest in Zamfara State and parts of Kaduna State, intending to launch a large-scale invasion in the Kuchi axis.
Security officials confirmed to Daily Trust that the DSS had been closely monitoring the bandits’ movements through renewed covert operations. Their surveillance allowed security forces to launch a surprise ambush on the group before they could reach their target.
“The bandits, armed with sophisticated weapons, were intercepted on the outskirts of Kuchi town,” a security source disclosed. “A fierce gun battle ensued, resulting in the neutralisation of at least 45 assailants. Several others were injured while a number of motorcycles and ammunition were also recovered.”
The operation, however, came at a cost, as five DSS operatives sustained serious injuries during the exchange of gunfire. They are currently receiving treatment at a medical facility.
Sources also disclosed that this ambush follows the recent elimination of over 50 bandits in the same region and has significantly weakened Dogo Gide’s network, with operatives continuing sustained pressure on his camps.
“This is one of several successful offensives that have put serious heat on their operations. Dogo Gide has lost vast territories due to the superior tactics and firepower from the combined security teams,” a senior operative said.
Communities in the Munya LGA and surrounding areas have welcomed the operation as a timely intervention, offering relief after months of deadly attacks by criminal gangs. Despite this success, banditry remains a persistent threat in parts of the North, with assaults still ongoing in other regions.
Amid rising insecurity across the nation, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, reportedly visited Benue State earlier this week to assess the situation and reinforce counter-terrorism strategies.
