The gallant troops of the 1 Division of the Nigerian Army stationed in Kaduna have achieved a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism. Two suspected suppliers of ammunition to terrorist groups were successfully arrested, and a significant cache of weapons, as well as 16 motorcycles, were recovered in Kaduna.
In an official statement released on Wednesday in Kaduna, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 1 Division, Lieutenant-Colonel Musa Yahaya, confirmed this remarkable feat. He explained that these arrests occurred as a result of credible intelligence gathered by the troops.
The operation, which took place in the early hours of October 24, led to the apprehension of two collaborators with known terrorist organizations. These criminals were swiftly apprehended in their respective residences located in the Awon general area of Kachia Local Government in Kaduna State. Their capture was made possible through the assistance of a previously arrested collaborator, who had been under the custody of the troops.
Among the items seized during the operation were a locally made AK 47 rifle, two dane guns, eight rounds of 9mm ammunition, seven live cartridges, and five expended cartridge shells. These weapons were discovered buried within the criminals’ compound, serving as evidence of their illicit activities.
Furthermore, on the same day, troops of the 1 Division conducted a clearance operation in the Dogon daji-Saulawa general area of Birnin Gwari Local Government Area. In the course of the operation, the troops encountered a group of terrorists and criminal elements. A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, with the superior firepower of the troops causing the criminals to scatter in disarray.
The aftermath of the engagement resulted in the recovery of a G3 rifle, 16 motorcycles, two locally made guns, and a mobile phone, all belonging to the fleeing criminals.
Major-General Valentine Okoro, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 1 Division Nigerian Army and the Force Commander of Operation Whirl Punch, has commended the troops for their gallantry. He urged them to sustain their determination and clear all criminal elements within the division’s areas of responsibility.
These recent successes serve as a testament to the unwavering commitment and diligence of the Nigerian Army in its fight against terrorism and criminality. The troops remain resolute in their mission to safeguard the peace and security of the Nigerian people.
NAN
