Terrorists launched a deadly attack on a Joint Task Force (JTF) base in Gwana District, Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State, killing two soldiers and a vigilante during a fierce gun battle.

The incident, which occurred around 4:32 p.m. on February 22, 2026, also led to the abduction of three residents of the community.

Confirming the attack in a statement on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Bauchi State Command, Superintendent of Police Nafiu Habib, said the fallen soldiers were attached to the 33 Artillery Brigade, Bauchi.

“Unfortunately, as a result of the attack, two soldiers attached to 33 Artillery Brigade, Bauchi, and a vigilante paid the supreme price during the encounter,” the statement read.

“Three members of the affected community were abducted, while about seven bandits were neutralised by operatives of the Police Anti-Kidnapping Unit (AKU) during the gun duel.”

SP Habib added that additional troops and police personnel have been deployed to the affected area to restore calm, protect lives, and prevent further incursions by the terrorists.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police Sani-Omolori Aliyu has directed intensified intelligence gathering and surveillance to track down fleeing suspects and secure the safe release of abducted victims.

“The Command assures members of the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible for this dastardly act. Further updates will be communicated as the situation unfolds,” the statement concluded.

The latest attack comes amid ongoing military operations across northern Nigeria targeting bandit and terrorist enclaves.

In a similar operation earlier this week, security forces killed 19 bandits in Kano State, though two soldiers and a vigilante also lost their lives.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as joint forces intensify patrols in Alkaleri and surrounding communities.