Eleven bandits have been killed in a fierce battle with troops of the special forces of the Nigerian arm in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna state.
Samuel Aruwan, commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Kaduna.
He said, the troops recovered two AK-47 rifles, two AK-47 magazines and 57 rounds of ammunition while six motorcycles belonging to the bandits were destroyed during the encounter.
“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,” the statement reads.
“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.”
Aruwan said, Governor Nasir El-Rufai commended the security forces and “praised the leadership of the Major General TA Lagbaja, GOC One Division and Force Commander of the Operation Whirl Punch.”
He added that the governor lauded the troops for their consistent and spirited efforts, and urged them to build on the momentum of this notable success.
Troops of the Operation Whirl Punch, had on Friday neutralised five bandits terrorising communities in Chikun LGA of the state during a similar operation.
