The Nigerian Army neutralized four bandits and rescued 20 kidnapped individuals across Birnin Gwari and Giwa Local Government Areas of Kaduna State.
According to The PUNCH, this was disclosed by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, in a statement issued on Tuesday.
The joint operations, carried out by troops from Operation Forest Sanity and Operation Whirl Punch, aimed to dismantle bandit strongholds and secure the release of abducted victims.
According to Aruwan, the first mission occurred in Alawa, Birnin Gwari LGA, where soldiers of Operation Forest Sanity launched a special clearance operation.
The troops reportedly established a blocking force after spotting suspicious movements near Kwaga and, in the ensuing confrontation, neutralized two bandits.
Recovered from the scene were two AK-47 rifles, three magazines, three motorcycles, and a Baofeng radio, the commissioner added.
In a second operation, troops of Sector 6 under Operation Whirl Punch launched fighting patrols in Nakwakina village, Giwa LGA, based on credible intelligence.
The soldiers ambushed the bandits along their suspected withdrawal route, successfully engaging and neutralizing two more bandits. Items recovered during this operation included two motorcycles, one mobile phone, and a cutlass.
Aruwan further noted that following the bandits’ flight, the soldiers were able to rescue 20 kidnapped individuals, who were then reunited with their families.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, commending the military for their dedication. “I am thrilled to receive the news of these successful operations.
The neutralization of four bandits and the rescue of 20 kidnap victims demonstrates the bravery and commitment of our troops,” the governor said.
He also extended his appreciation to Major General MLD Saraso, General Officer Commanding the 1 Division of the Nigerian Army and Force Commander of Operation Whirl Punch, for the notable achievements in securing the affected areas.
