Troops ‘kill 21’ bandits in Zamfara

The defence headquarters says about 21 armed bandits were killed in an encounter with troops of Operation Hadarin Daji on Monday, in Zamfara state.

According to a statement by John Enenche, coordinator, defence media operations, the encounter with the bandits occurred at Zurmi in Zurmi local government area of the state.

Enenche said four soldiers, however, died during the attack.

“The gallant troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI engaged a large number of bandits by 1530hrs April 20, 2020 at Zurmi in Zurumi LGA of Zamfara state,” he said.

“After a fierce encounter, twenty-one bandits were neutralized and four of our troops paid the supreme price. Exploitation in progress. Details to follow.

“Meanwhile the troops in high morale, have commenced aggressive patrols in the area, for domination and confidence-building among the locals.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria requests the general public to provide credible information on the bandits to assist the Military to rid the country of the criminal elements”.

Tukur Buratai, chief of army staff, had asked troops fighting Boko Haram insurgents to go all out to stop and eliminate the insurgents.

He said there was no room for cowardice and asked them to bring the war against the insurgents to an end.