Military sustains airstrikes against bandits in Kaduna as troops rescue kidnapped victims
Nigerian Air Force platforms conducted armed reconnaissance over Sabon Birni, Rikau, Kaya, Kerawa, Galadimawa, Fatika, Kidandan, Saulawa, Dogon Dawa, Ngede Allah, Kuduru, Yadi, Damari, Takama, Sabuwa, Ungwan Yako, the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari road, the Ungwan Yako-Kuduru track and environs.
According to the operational feedback to the Kaduna State Government, armed bandits with rustled cattle were sighted about 3km southwest of Galadimawa, apparently fleeing the area due to the air raid.
They were promptly engaged and neutralized. Visual and radio contact was maintained with ground troops, and all other covered areas were reported to be calm with no suspicious activities observed.
In another mission, air platforms swiftly mobilized for a mission over Kidandan village following reports of bandits’ activities in the area. Although observation was not optimal due to poor visibility over the area at the time, the crew maintained their presence over the location for deterrence before returning to base.
Governor Nasir El-Rufai noted the report with thanks, commending the crews and troops for their sustained efforts. Aggressive patrols will continue with regularity in these and other areas of interest across the state.
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Meanwhile, Nigerian troops under the auspices of Operation Thunder Strike rescued two kidnapped women, close to Gadanin Gwari, Gwagwada District of Chikun local government area.
According to the operational feedback to the Kaduna State Government, the women were suddenly abducted as they made their way to their farm. The troops on patrol tracked down the criminals and engaged them in a firefight, forcing them to abandon their captives and run for their lives.
After securing the women, the troops pursued the bandits, destroying many bandit camps along the way. The bandits were eventually trapped in Gajina settlement also in Chikun LGA. Three of the kidnappers were apprehended and are now in custody, while the rescued women have returned to their homes.
Furthermore, the troops of Operation Thunder Strike and the newly inducted troops of the Nigerian Army Women Corps have continued aggressive patrols along the Kaduna-Abuja highway. The Patrol was hitch-free, with no incidents recorded as of yesterday, Friday.
In a separate incident, police personnel rescued two persons who were abducted at Kurmin Idon axis of Kaduna-Kachia Road in Kajuru local government area. The police gave the bandits a hot chase and rescued the two victims, while one other victim was able to escape on his own.
Governor Nasir El-Rufai expressed his satisfaction with the reports, and commended the troops and personnel for their pro-active efforts in rescuing the victims and arresting the three bandits.
He tasked them to ensure detailed investigations, and prosecution of the arrested culprits. Vigorous patrols will continue in the general area.
By Samuel Aruwan
Commissioner,
Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs,
Kaduna State
