Kaduna State Government says security agencies have reported a sequence of attacks by armed bandits in Igabi and Chikun local government areas killing 18 residents.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, said the attacks occurred over the last 48 hours.
Samuel Aruwan said many of the houses in the community were burnt down, along with storehouses and barns, noting that about 20 cows were rustled and a number of poultry slaughtered and carted away.
The statement explained further that some residents were abducted, and cattle rustled during the attack, noting that an unspecified number of injured victims were receiving treatment in hospital.
The statement explained that,the attacks at Anaba and Barinje villages in Igabi and Chikun LGAs respectively, followed the killing of several armed bandits via targeted air operations.
Aruwan said: “Air paltforms had earlier conducted armed reconnaissance around Anaba village. The crew observed houses on fire and locals migrating to nearby settlements. Some motorbikes were observed with suspicious movements underneath some trees; probing shots were fired at these.
He said herds of cattle were spotted with bandits at Malul Forest and were engaged accordingly.
Also, air platforms conducted armed reconnaissance over some affected locations. Kawuri, Chikun, Godani, Kusasu, Godani Station, Kwafe, Kuduru, Irina, Chikwale, Kudame, Kwakwau, Beni, Akilbu, Polewire, Rijana, Rugu, Olam farms and adjoining areas were covered”
“Bandits in large numbers on motorcycles were sighted on a track leading to Kankomi. They were trailed and engaged by the crew, with scores seen neutralized afterwards.
The statement said following intelligence of bandits converging at forests in between Maidaro/Damari general area of Giwa/Birnin Gwari LGAs, armed reconnaissance was conducted over the locations, in conjunction with ground troops who conducted cordon-and-search operations in the area.
Aruwan said a further mission was conducted over Gagafada, Birnin Gwari LGA: ”No suspicious activities were observed here. The scan was extended to Gwaska, Goron Dutse, Kuyanbana, Maidaro and Sabon Birni.
He further appealed to the communities to report anyone found with suspicious bullet wounds to the Security Operations Room on 09034000060 and 08170189999.
Aruwan said Governor Nasir El-Rufai noted the reports with sadness, and sent condolences to the families of those killed in these attacks, while offering prayers for the repose of their souls:”He also wished the injured quick recovery.
The Governor commended the crews for their vigorous response and successful missions which saw the extermination of many bandits” the statement said.