‘Bandits flee’ as military bombs their hideout in Kaduna

Security operatives have reportedly dislodged suspected bandits from their hideouts in Birnin Gwari local government area of Kaduna state. 

According to Samuel Aruwan, commissioner of internal security and home affairs, the military operations were carried out in Sani Maichuku, Alhaji Chorki, Sangeku, Zabiya, Dutsen Magaji, Kotonkoro and adjoining settlements in the state.

In a statement, Aruwan said some of the suspects escaped during the operation.

“In continuation of offensives over identified bandit hideouts, air platforms conducted armed missions over locations in Birnin Gwari local government area,” he said.

“According to operational feedback to the Kaduna State Government, armed reconnaissance was carried out over Sani Maichuku, Alhaji Chorki, Sangeku, Zabiya, Dutsen Magaji, Kotonkoro and adjoining settlements. At Sani Maichuku, several bandit settlements were sighted, and were engaged as some bandits attempted to escape on three motorcycles.

“Similarly, at Alhaji Chokri, bandits were sighted on five motorcycles with herds of cattle, and were duly neutralized by the fighter jet crew. Communication was maintained with ground troops particularly at Zabiya and Gwaska; no suspicious activity was reported in those locations.”

Nasir el-Rufai, governor of the state, commended the military for the operations which he said would deny bandits freedom of action.

The governor advised the residents in the communities to corporate with security operatives, adding that self-help is always a dangerous option.