Troops of the Special Forces of the Nigerian Army have killed 11 bandits in a fierce battle in the Birnin-Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, disclosed that the troops cleared several camps of the hoodlums across nine communities of Bagoma, Rema, Bugai, Dagara, Sabon Layi, Gagumi, Kakangi, Katakaki and Randagi.
Aruwan, who however did not disclose when the incident happened, added that the troops recovered weapons, including two AK-47 rifles, two AK-47 magazines and 57 rounds of ammunition.
He said six motorcycles belonging to the bandits were also destroyed during the encounter.
Aruwan said, “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.”
The Commissioner also quoted Governor Nasir El-Rufai as hailing the gallantry of the soldiers and “praised the leadership of the Major General TA Lagbaja, General Officer Commanding One Division and Force Commander of the Operation Whirl Punch.”
“The Governor lauded the troops for their consistent and spirited efforts, as he urged them to build on the momentum of this notable success.”