Troops of Operation Whirl Punch have killed notorious bandit leader, Dogo Bangaje, his close lieutenant and two others in Giwa local government.
The troops have also dislodged the insurgents’ treatment camp in the area.
A statement signed by the Overseeing Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs in Kaduna state, Samuel Aruwan, Monday said this was the feedback from a two pronged special fighting patrol conducted by the troops in Tumburku village, and projected to Sabon Sara, both in Giwa local government area.
He said items recovered from the two operations include two motorcycles, two AK-47 rifles, one pump action rifle, three magazines, 16 rounds of ammunition, one Improvised Explosive Device (IED), two radios, mobile phone, assorted charms among others.
“Security forces have reported to the Kaduna state government that troops of Operation Whirl Punch neutralised four bandits, including one notorious bandit leader, during fighting patrols in Giwa LGA at the weekend.
“According to the operational feedback, the troops conducted the special fighting patrol first to Tumburku village, and then projected the same to Sabon Sara, both in Giwa LGA.
“Acting on credible intelligence, the troops sighted bandits fleeing the latter location, and engaged the criminals in hot pursuit. The troops neutralised two of the bandits and recovered a range of items including a motorcycle, a mobile phone, gas lighters, tobacco, assorted charms, and a polythene bag containing petrol.
“Another leg of the operation was conducted at Basurfe village, South-west of Kindandan. The troops fought through an ambush and forced the bandits to flee on motorcycles. A vigorous pursuit resulted in two more bandits neutralised. The troops further exploited the area and dislodged a camp serving as a treatment area for the insurgents.
“Recoveries made at the location included two AK-47 rifles, one pump action rifle, three magazines, 16 rounds of ammunition, one Improvised Explosive Device (IED), two radios and one motorcycle, as well as cigarettes, drugs and medical accessories.”