Banditry: Army Neutralises Bandit, Rescues 14 Victims

The Troops of Sector Four of Operation Whirl Punch and Special Forces of the 167 Battalion neutralised on bandit during a fierce encounter in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The troops also rescued 14 victims kidnapped by the bandits.

During the encounter, the troops cleared out several bandits' camps with the recovery of two motorcycles.

This was contained in a statement signed and made available on Saturday by the Kaduna state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan.

"The troops who embarked on a long range fighting patrol to Tukurua general area of Chikun LGA, engaged and overpowered the outlaws, neutralizing one, with others fleeing in disarray. 

"The troops during the operation rescued 14 kidnapped victims, comprising nine men and five women. 

"The victims were moved to a secure location for debriefing and examination before being reunited with their families. 

"In the course of the battle, the troops destroyed several camps. 

"Two motorcycles were recovered during the operation", the statement reads.

Aruwan added that governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai was excited to receive the victory report.

He commended the troops and the leadership of Major General TA Lagbaja, GOC One Division and Force Commander of the Operation Whirl Punch. 

The Governor further extolled the professional prowess of the troops, as all the kidnapped citizens were rescued alive and unhurt.