Many bandits have been neutralised by troops of the Nigerian Army on fighting patrol in some villages in Zamfara State, army spokesman Onyema Nwachukwu said in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.

Mr Nwachukwu, a brigadier-general, said troops of 8 Division engaged the brigands in fierce encounters in Talata Marafa Local Government Areas of Zamfara.

Bandits operating along Mayanchi-Dogo Karfe and Fagantama villages had opened fire on the soldiers who were on fighting patrol. 

The troops however promptly returned fire, overwhelming the criminals with superior firepower and neutralising scores of them, Mr Nwachukwu explained.

According to him, troops also recovered one PKT rifle, large cache of ammunition, and a motorcycle.

The army image maker also disclosed that the troops neutralised five bandits in another encounter at Bingi village in Bungudu Local Government Area of the state.

He said that the bandits withdrew in disarray having sustained severe gunshot wounds during the gun duel while one AK47 rifle, one motorcycle and three mobile phones were recovered.

According to him, the Chief of Army Staff, Major-General Faruk Yahaya, commended the troops for their combat resilience and renewed vigour.

“He also urged them to sustain the aggressive posture in order to defeat all criminal elements operating in the North West and other parts of the country.

“He urged communities in the North-West to support the troops with useful information at all times to enhance anti-banditry operations,” he said.