Troops Raid Bandits’ Camp, Arrest Kingpin’s Wife, Others

The Kaduna State Government on Friday said security operatives have raided bandits’ hideouts in Igabi and Chikun LGAs of the state, killing scores of terrorists.

This was contained in a statement on Friday by Mr. Samuel Aruwan, Kaduna state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs who said several arms and ammunition were recovered.

According to him, security forces have reported to the Kaduna State Government that several bandits were eliminated, and camps destroyed, during clearance operations in Igabi and Chikun.

Aruwan further said clearance operations were conducted in Faka, Katuka, Barebari and Maguzawa general areas, spanning Chikun and Igabi LGAs. An unconfirmed number of bandits were sighted on the high ground across the Maguzawa river; they were engaged by a NAF attack helicopter, and neutralized.

He said security forces conducted clearance patrols to Katuka, about 9km from Kangon Kadi in Chikun LGA, adding that, during the operation, one fleeing bandit was apprehended, while one motorcycle, one AK-47 rifle and 30 rounds of ammunition were recovered.

Aruwan added that another clearance operation took place in Kangon Kadi and Barebari areas, adding that Rabi Hajiya Karime, the wife of a notorious bandit, Zubairu, was apprehended, with Malam Idris Audu, a spiritual leader to the bandit, Abdulrasheed Gambo Na Halima and Abubakar Idris Na Halima, who were suspected collaborators.

He said,”Some items used by bandits were recovered after dislodging and razing some bandit camps in Udawa general area of Chikun LGA include; motorcycles, AK-47 rifle, some AK-47 magazines, ammunition and drugs.

He said governor Nasir El-Rufai expressed satisfaction at the reports and commended the security forces for the successful operation. The governor also thanked the troops for their relentless efforts, and urged security agencies to ensure thorough investigations on the persons apprehended.

Aruwan said clearance patrols will be sustained in these and other earmarked areas.