Troops of the Nigerian Army at Kankomi, Chikun Local Council of Kaduna State have repelled an attack by bandits and neutralised three of the attackers, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.
Disclosing this, yesterday, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, said the state government was informed of the development in feedback, which captured the troops’ bravery.
According to Aruwan, the attackers attempted to infiltrate the troops’ abode, but the vigilant soldiers engaged them in a fierce gun duel, which lasted for over an hour.
The Guardian gathered that one of the killed terrorists was wearing military camouflage combat gear.
Aruwan stated: “The troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, seven AK-47 magazines, seven rounds of ammunition and five locally made grenades from the bandits.
“Sadly, while exploiting the withdrawal route of the bandits, the troops found three bodies suspected to be locals killed by the fleeing bandits.”
In another development, troops of Operation Forest Sanity conducted clearance patrols along the Gwagwada-Chikun-Sarkin Pawa axis, stretching from Chikun to inter-state boundary areas.
According to the report, contact was made with terrorists on high ground ahead of Kafaiyo. One terrorist was neutralised, and an AK-47 rifle was recovered.
“Further, two terrorists fled on sighting the troops, leaving behind their motorcycles. The troops completely dislodged several terrorists camps around Kafaiyo, Dafako, Kopi and Gadani.
“Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State received the feedback with sadness, and sent his deepest condolences to the families of the victims while praying for the repose of victims’ souls. The governor expressed gratitude to the courageous troops for their resilient efforts and dedication.”
Meanwhile, residents have been advised not to harbour or provide support to suspicious persons seeking medical attention for gunshot injuries. Such cases should be reported to the security operations room on the phone lines 09034000060 and 08170189999.
“Aggressive fighting patrols are in progress in the general area, and citizens will be updated on further developments,” the commissioner stated.
