A coordinated security operation in Niger State has led to the deaths of dozens of armed terrorists following a fierce gun battle in Iburu village, located in Shiroro Local Government Area.

According to information released on Monday, the operation, which took place Friday evening, involved troops of the Nigerian Army, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), and a combined team of community-based hybrid forces.

Security officials said the offensive was launched after actionable intelligence revealed that a group of terrorists on motorcycles were mobilising to attack local communities in the area.

The DSS had picked up intelligence indicating that armed men, believed to be responsible for a series of recent attacks in parts of Niger State were advancing toward Iburu village with the intent to wreak havoc.

“Acting swiftly on the intelligence, a joint security team was mobilized to intercept the attackers before they could strike. A heavy exchange of gunfire followed, resulting in the death of at least 45 insurgents,” the source said.

Local residents, who witnessed the aftermath of the clash, reported counting over 40 lifeless bodies believed to be those of the attackers.

They also observed that numerous motorcycles, which the terrorists had used for the operation, were either burned or destroyed during the confrontation.