The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has dealt a major blow to armed bandits in Mariga Local Government Area, Niger State, neutralizing several of them in a precision airstrike last Sunday.
The operation reportedly took place between 4 pm and 5 pm and targeted bandits transporting stolen cattle from Ragada and surrounding villages through Yabawa, Bazana, Awallah, Dankolo, and Kumbashi toward Kakihum.
Although the NAF has not issued an official statement, sources revealed that the airstrikes were coordinated with ground troops, forcing several bandits to flee and neutralizing others.
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Ground units from Rijau, Warari, and Gulbin Boka reportedly sealed off escape routes and prevented reprisal attacks on nearby communities.
Usman Saidu, a Ragada resident who had been abducted by the bandits and taken toward Dankolo, recounted his narrow escape. “When the jet began bombing, God saved me; that was how I escaped from their hands,” he said.
Eyewitnesses reported multiple explosions, thick plumes of smoke, and sporadic gunfire as the bandits dispersed. Local residents praised the NAF, describing the airstrikes as the most effective military response amid the recent surge in violence across Mariga and surrounding areas.
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Pinnacle Daily learned that intelligence gathered over the past week revealed at least seven heavily armed bandit groups operating across Mariga, Rijau, and Magama LGAs, prompting the decision to launch the airstrikes.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
