Naija Blog — The Nigerian Army has declared a three-day mourning period from June 25 to June 27, 2025, to honour the 17 gallant soldiers who lost their lives during a brutal ambush by armed bandits in Kwanar Dutse, Mariga Local Government Area, Niger State.
In a solemn statement released on Thursday, the military said all Army formations and units have been directed to fly the Nigerian Army flag at half-mast during the mourning period.
“We pay our deepest respects to these fallen heroes and extend our heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones. Their unwavering dedication, valor, and sacrifice in defense of our nation will forever be remembered and cherished,”the statement read.
The fallen troops were part of a joint operation with the Nigerian Air Force when they were ambushed on the night of Tuesday, June 24, during a mission in the dense Kwanar Dutse Forest.
Fierce Battle with 300 Armed Bandits
According to Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the operation was based on credible intelligence suggesting that the terrorists were mobilizing toward Kwatankoro Forest either to launch new attacks or escape intensified operations in Zamfara State.
“Troops engaged about 300 armed terrorists in a fierce firefight that lasted over three hours,” Anele said.
Despite sustaining 17 fatalities and 10 injuries, the Army reports that it inflicted heavy casualties on the attackers, citing multiple blood trails found along the terrorists’ escape routes.
The Nigerian Air Force supported ground troops with precision airstrikes, targeting the terrorists’ withdrawal paths to disrupt their retreat and destroy their strongholds.
Public and Military Reactions
The loss has sparked widespread grief across military and civilian communities. Security analysts have called the operation one of the deadliest ambushes in recent years, highlighting the increasing threat level in North Central Nigeria.
The army reiterated its commitment to national security and vowed not to let the sacrifice of its personnel go in vain.