Security forces have killed 18 suspected bandits during an overnight operation in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The operation, carried out around 1:00 am on Monday, followed intelligence indicating that the suspects were preparing to abduct residents for ransom.
The security team comprised hunters, members of the Community Watch Corps and local vigilante groups.
The clash occurred at Gidan Iyado in Kakumi Ward, where the operatives reportedly ambushed the suspected criminals and engaged them in a gun battle.
The Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs said the operation led to the recovery of three firearms, including two AK-47 rifles and a G3 rifle.
Fourteen rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition and three motorcycles were also recovered from the scene, according to the ministry.
The ministry identified the alleged leader of the group as Alhaji Musa Duki, a former school headmaster who it said had become a bandit leader operating from Mununu Forest in Faskari Local Government Area.
Also recovered were two cows and 94 sheep suspected to have been stolen by the group.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Mua’zu, said no security operative was killed during the operation, adding that efforts were underway to locate Duki and dismantle his network.
He commended the participating groups and urged residents to continue supplying security agencies with credible information.