The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, air strike in Shiroro local government area of Niger, killed Babangida, a notorious bandits’ sub-commander and trusted lieutenant of kingpin Dogo Gideh.
A credible security source said the deceased bandits’ commander died on November 18 from injuries he sustained during a NAF airstrike on the outskirts of Kurebe community, where several terrorists were neutralised.
The source said that Babangida’s death had weakened the Gideh faction, which has been responsible for a series of high-profile attacks across parts of Niger and neighbouring states.
However, credible intelligence source suggests that the recent abduction of schoolchildren in parts of Kebbi and Niger may have been a retaliatory move by fighters loyal to the slain commander.
The source added that the fighters were said to be seeking to demonstrate capacity after suffering heavy losses from sustained air and ground operations.
On November 19, community leaders from Kwaki, Buresidna, Chukuba, Buwidna, Kuchidna, Banda and Shalupe visited the Palleli residence of Gideh’s mother, who was seen mourning her son’s closest aide.
A senior security source, who spoke under anonymity, said the killing of Babangida was “a major success that has rattled the camp,” but warned that the group might attempt further reprisals against civilians and security personnel.
He added that relevant security agencies had been placed on heightened alert to forestall additional attacks and protect vulnerable communities.
According to him, residents have expressed relief, saying the death of the commander signalled hope for a reduction in violent raids that had plagued the area for years.
Source at NAF Headquarters, who confirmed the development reiterated sustained offensive operations, with emphasis on preventing retaliatory attacks and rescuing abducted victims across the affected states.
Source: NAN
READ ALSO:
Students, members of staff of Niger school abducted
Averting the impending southern invasion
DAME holds 34th awards in Lagos on Tuesday
AU challenges youths to take lead in peace, justice processes
20% of world’s children trapped in extreme poverty -UNICEF
Kebbi girls: Tinubu directs defence minister to relocate to state
NIS, NIMC state reasons for need to work more closely
BREAKING: IPOB leader, Kanu, sentenced to life imprisonment
Police arrest man for allegedly killing wife, hiding corpse in sack
Judgement day: Judge orders Kanu out of court for being unruly
