Troops of the 22 Armoured Brigade deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Babana in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State have recorded a major success in their ongoing operations against criminal elements.
At about 2:50 a.m. on Thursday, 28 August 2025, the soldiers engaged armed bandits attempting to infiltrate the Babana axis. After a fierce exchange of gunfire, the troops overpowered the attackers, forcing them to flee in disarray.
During a follow-up operation along the bandits’ withdrawal route, the troops neutralised two criminals on the outskirts of Babana town. Items recovered from the operation include one AK-47 rifle, four magazines loaded with 60 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 323 rounds of 7.62x54mm ammunition, and a mobile phone.
However, an officer and a soldier sustained gunshot injuries to their legs during the encounter. Both are currently receiving medical treatment and are responding positively. The remains of the neutralised bandits have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.
Commending the troops, the Commander of 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, lauded their vigilance, resilience, and doggedness.
He reiterated the Brigade’s determination to intensify operations and employ all legitimate means to eradicate criminal elements while safeguarding the lives and property of law-abiding citizens.
The Nigerian Army has assured residents that it will continue to sustain pressure on criminal groups across Niger State and beyond.