…Camps cleared, arms, ammunition recovered.

…As el-Rufai hails troops.

by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

Troops and Special Forces of the Nigerian Army have reportedly neutralized 11 bandits in a fierce battle, which took place during fighting patrols in Birnin Gwari LGA of Kaduna State.

This was revealed in a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Kaduna State, Mr. Samuel Aruwan.

“Troops and Special Forces of the Nigerian Army have neutralized 11 bandits in a fierce battle, which took place during fighting patrols in Birnin Gwari LGA.

“Operational feedback to the Kaduna State Government revealed that the troops advanced to several identified locations, and cleared bandit camps in Bagoma, Rema, Bugai, Dagara, Sabon Layi, Gagumi, Kakangi, Katakaki and Randagi. 

“In the course of these operations, the forces made contact with bandits at Kakangi and Katakaki. A fierce gun battle followed, after which the criminals were subdued by the troops’ aggressive firepower. Eleven bandits were confirmed neutralized, as others fled. 

“After the battle, the troops exploited the location and recovered two AK-47 rifles, two AK-47 magazines and 57 rounds of ammunition. Six motorcycles belonging to the bandits were destroyed during the encounter,” it stated.

Receiving the report, Governor Nasir El-Rufai reportedly expressed his satisfaction at the “emphatic outing” by the security forces, and praised the leadership of Major-General TA Lagbaja, GOC One Division and Force Commander of the Operation Whirl Punch. 

The governor also lauded the troops for their consistent and spirited efforts, as he urged them to “build on the momentum of this notable success.”