The Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch, has conducted several missions at various locations of interest in frontline areas suspected to be bandits’ hideouts in some parts of Kaduna State.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, he said security reports revealed that, following credible intelligence of bandits gathering around Ukambo in Chikun local government area of the State, air platforms targeted the location and struck it successfully.
The statement added that the hideouts of bandits identified as Alhaji Ishiaka (in Igabi LGA) and Dan Rani (in Birnin Gwari LGA) were also targeted and destroyed with rockets.
Aruwan further said terrorist camps in Janbirni as well as Takaura, Kuyanbana forest, Birnin Gwari LGA were targeted and destroyed.
The statement said the Kaduna State Government was also informed that 10 kidnapped citizens have escaped from a bandit camp following armed reconnaissance conducted over Damari Forest in Birnin Gwari LGA.
“Four escaped victims, originally from Damari, have been identified as follows: Muhammadu Maitireda, Musa Adamu, Dahiru Garba, Badamasi Halilu
“The other six escaped citizens were identified as: Malam Alawiya, Maimuna, Adama,Garba, Ahmad and Luka,” he said.
He explained that the six victims were visiting Damari from a neighbouring State when they were kidnapped, adding that all citizens have since been reunited with their families.
The Commissioner, however, said the troops of Operation Forest Sanity conducted fighting patrols along the Gyam-Kuriga-Manini-Udawa-Buruku Road in Birnin Gwari LGA came in contact with bandits around Labi Gyam.
“After a 25-minute exchange, the bandits withdrew from the area. The troops dislodged the camp and recovered one AK47 rifle, seven motorcycles, nine rounds of ammunition and one Baofeng radio charger.Ground and air patrols will continue in these areas,” the statement added.
