Troops conducting fighting patrols have neutralised eight bandits in Birnin Gwari Local Government Areas of Kaduna State.
The Overseeing Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr Samuel Aruwan, who disclosed this on Thursday said, the troops also recovered ammunitions and motorcycles during the operation.
According Aruwan, the troops commenced the fighting patrol to Kampanin Doka general area, and on arrival at the location, made contact with bandits.
He said the troops promptly engaged and neutralised seven of the bandits.
According to him: “On securing and searching the area, the troops recovered the following: three AK-47 rifles – eight AK-47 magazines; four empty and four loaded with a total of 120 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, one magazine carrier, six motorcycles, three mobile phones, two Baofeng radio sets and three pairs of civilian clothes.
“During the concluding leg of the patrol, further contact was made with bandits around Gayam general area. The troops neutralized one, as others were suspected to have escaped with gunshot wounds.
“The Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, thanked the security forces for the feedback and commended the troops – under the leadership of the General Officer Commanding, 1 Division Nigerian Army/Commander Operation Whirl Punch (OPWP) Major General MLD Saraso – for their valiant efforts and notable breakthrough.
“Citizens are urged to report suspicious persons seeking treatment for gunshot injuries to the Security Operations Room on the phone lines 09034000060 and 08170189999,” Aruwan urged.