From Aminu DALHATU (Kaduna)
Kaduna State government says several bandits have been neutralized via air raid in some locations in Birnin Gwari, Giwa, Igabi and Chikun local government areas.
Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr Samuel Aruwan who announced this in a statement said troops under the auspices of Operation Thunder Strike have briefed the State Government on joint land and air operations conducted and also identified bandit locations across Birnin Gwari, Giwa, Igabi and Chikun local government areas.
The statement explained that, during the operations, Bandits were sighted by the fighter jet crew at Yadi and the location was robustly engaged, with several bandits neutralized.
“Also, along the track connecting Kuduru and Ungwan Yako, bandits were sighted with rustled cattle, and were neutralized”
“Other locations covered appeared calm with normal activities, as ground troops conducted clearance operations in Sabon Birni and Dogon Dawa”
According to the statement, Governor Nasiru El-Rufai expressed satisfaction over the success of the ongoing operations and commended the armed forces for sustaining the offensives on identified bandit enclaves obtained via credible intelligence.
The Governor encouraged citizens to cooperate with the security forces by providing volunteering information on suspicious activities and hideouts for decisive action towards vanquishing the criminals.
He said the Government of Kaduna State mourns with the families that lost their loved ones on the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari Road, and prays for the repose of their souls, while wishing a speedy recovery to those receiving medical attention.
The statement added that Kaduna State Government would continue to engage elected representatives of the front line locations, comprising Senators, Members of the House of Representatives, State Assembly, local government chairmen, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other critical stakeholders.