Troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces have raided suspected bandits hideouts in communities in Kaduna State, killing 17 members of the criminal gangs in the process.
The military operations which took place on 7 May in Mashigi Galbi, Damba Community and the Kabarasha Villages all in Gwagwada District of Chikun Local Government, also saw the escape of some of the bandits with gunshot injuries.
This was made known in a statement posted on Defence Headquarters twitter handle, @DefenceInfoNg, on Monday.
The statement read: “In continuation of operations to rid Kaduna State of armed bandits and other criminal elements,
“Armed Forces of Nigeria, on 7 May 2020, conducted a joint clearance operation, involving troops of Operations THUNDER STRIKE and WHIRL PUNCH with air support from the Air Component of Operation GAMA AIKI, at suspected bandits’ hideouts around Mashigi Galbi, Damba Community and the Kabarasha Villages all in Gwagwada District of Chikun Local Government Area in Kaduna State.
“During the operation Seventeen armed bandits were neutralized, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.
“However, in the course of pursuing the bandits, three empty houses and a Church building were partially damaged at Kabarasha Village. There was no civilian casualty.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria regrets this unfortunate incident and a panel has been set up to investigate the occurrence in liaison with the Kaduna State Government. The buildings have been identified with a view to providing adequate compensation to the owners.
“Meanwhile, calm has been restored to the area. Few people, who initially fled the area due to fear of bandits’ reprisal attack, have all returned to the Community.
“The High Command of the Armed Forces of Nigeria hereby reassures the general public that it will continue to work assiduously to restore peace and security to the North West.
“It equally thanks the general public for their support and cooperation, while encouraging them to continue to provide credible information that will facilitate the operations of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”
