tToops of 1 Division Nigerian Army and Air Component Operation Whirl Punch have dealt a massive blow on criminal elements in notorious forests in the Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The ground and air offensive to rid the forests of criminal elements is in continuation of the onslaught against banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other criminal activities in the North Western part of the country,
Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 1 division, Lt. Col Musa Yahaya made this known in a statement Thursday night.
He said, “In an operation that lasted for about 48 hours, troops cleared Manini-Kuriga, Farin Ruwa, Kwanan Yashi, Makera, Dogon Dawa-Maidaro, road Kidanda-Yadi Forest and Sabon Birnin all in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area and Dogon-Dawa-Kidandan in Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
“During the encounter, troops engaged the criminals with heavy and superior firepower, capturing one AK 47 rifle with quantity 20 rounds of 7.62mm Special, six motorcycles and neutralised 4 Bandits while others escaped with gunshot wounds.
“The troops in their efforts to permanently displace the bandit and render the general area inhabitable for all criminals went ahead to destroy all the bandits enclaves, properties and the captured motorcycles.
“The General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Force Commander Operation Whirl Punch, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja expressed his satisfaction with the conduct of the troops during the operation and commended them for their gallantry and resilience.
“He also urged all law abiding citizens to continue to assist the military and other security agencies with timely and credible intelligence.
“Additionally, he appealed to members of the public, particularly health facilities and paramedics to watch out for persons who may be seeking medical attention for gunshot wounds and kindly report to relevant security agencies.”
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