The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has killed several bandits who were gathering to attack communities in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna state, while armed missions flown over Kaduna-Abuja road and environs observed free traffic flow.
This is just as gunmen killed one person and injured three others in Mazari, close to Buruku in Chikun LGA, they also killed one person and injured three others in Doka Kujama LGA both of Kaduna state.
A statement signed by Kaduna state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, on Tuesday said, “The Nigerian Air Force in response to credible intelligence, neutralized a group of bandits congregating in a location to carry out attacks in Birnin Gwari LGA on Monday May 3, 2021.
“The Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs had on Sunday May 2, 2021 received intelligence of bandits congregating at the outskirts of Kugu in Birnin Gwari LGA, which is also proximal to some villages in Shiroro LGA of Niger state.
“On receipt of the intelligence – which was dispatched to the military and other security agencies for further confirmation and action – the NAF component of Operation Thunder Strike (OPTS) mobilised for armed reconnaissance.
“The first mission was conducted over the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari road, Koriga, Polewire, Gagafada, Manini, Udawa, Labi, Buruku and adjoining settlements. The target location was acquired, and the bandits were engaged and neutralized accordingly at the outskirts of Kugu village.
“In a second mission, armed reconnaissance was carried out over the Kaduna-Abuja road, Olam Company, Rugu, Akilbu, Polewire, Rijana, Kateri and Jere. Normal human and vehicular movements were observed.
“Receiving the feedback, Governor Nasir el-Rufai thanked the air component and all the agencies involved for the successful missions.”
Speaking further, Aruwan said, “security agencies have reported that armed bandits invaded Mazari, a community close to Buruku in Chikun LGA. According to the report, one Mariya Sale was killed in the attack. Three others were injured, identified as Ladidi Abdullahi, Zubaida Balarabe, Hauwa’u Ayuba
“In another reported incident, armed bandits attacked Doka village, Kajuru LGA. One Bitrus Luka was shot dead, and three others were injured. The injured are: Kings Andy, Danladi Audu, Titus Friday.
“Governor Nasir el-Rufai noted the reports with sadness and prayed for the repose of the souls of the slain victims, while offering his heartfelt condolences to their families. He also wished the injured a quick recovery.”
