Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully killed two suspected members of the dreaded Lakurawa terror group in Sokoto State during a swift operation that has brought fresh hope to communities long plagued by insecurity.
The incident occurred on Saturday in Mano community, Tangaza Local Government Area, where the terrorists had stormed the local market to purchase food supplies.
Acting on intelligence, soldiers ambushed them and engaged in a brief but intense gun battle.
Confirming the development, Major Chukuma, the Army Operations Officer overseeing Tangaza, Gudu, Binji, and Silame Local Government Areas, revealed that the operation yielded significant results.
“Our men intercepted the criminals at the market. After a short exchange of fire, two of them were neutralised.
“We recovered three rifles and five motorcycles, while the remaining suspects escaped into the forest. Troops are currently in pursuit of the fleeing terrorists,” he said.
Residents of Mano community described the scene as both frightening and relieving. An eyewitness, who spoke to The Punch on Sunday, said the military intervention was timely.
“We saw them trying to buy food when suddenly the soldiers arrived. Gunshots followed, and within minutes, two of the bandits were lying dead.
“This operation gives us some relief because we have suffered too much in their hands,” the witness recounted.
For years, border communities in Tangaza, Gudu, and Argungu in neighbouring Kebbi State have endured frequent attacks from the Lakurawa, who take advantage of the porous boundary with Niger Republic to carry out raids.
Their assaults have led to loss of lives, destruction of farms, and massive cattle rustling.
Alhaji Umar Bello, a respected elder in the area, welcomed the success of the operation, describing it as a morale booster for residents.
“These bandits come and go as they please, killing our people and stealing our cattle. This action by the army shows that the government is listening to our cries.
“We pray that the soldiers will not relent until every one of them is flushed out from our land,” he said.
The Lakurawa terror group has, for over a decade, been a source of devastation in parts of Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara States.
Known for their violent raids, kidnappings, and destruction of rural settlements, the group thrives by exploiting weak security presence along Nigeria’s borders.
Many villagers in the affected areas have been forced to abandon their farmlands and flee to urban centres for safety.
Saturday’s operation has raised hopes among residents that government forces are finally stepping up efforts to reclaim rural communities from terrorists.
Locals are urging sustained military presence to ensure that the gains recorded are not temporary.
“This is a good beginning, but we want it to continue. If the army keeps up this momentum, our people will be able to return to their farms and live without fear again,” another villager remarked.