In a remarkable display of bravery and effectiveness, troops from the Nigerian Army’s 1 Division and Operation Whirl Punch have successfully neutralised four bandits in the village of Kampanin Doka, located in the Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State. This operation has not only eliminated a significant threat to the safety and security of the community but has also resulted in the recovery of several weapons and motorcycles from the criminals.
According to a statement released by Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 1 Division Nigerian Army, the operation led to the confiscation of an AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, a machete, a mobile phone, and fourteen motorcycles. These weapons and vehicles, which were likely being used to carry out illegal activities and terrorize innocent civilians, have now been taken out of the hands of the bandits.
Furthermore, on November 2, 2023, a group of farmers who were in the midst of harvesting their crops in the western part of Sabon Sara village were subjected to a raid by bandits. In a show of resilience and determination, the farmers quickly fled their farms and immediately alerted the nearest troops to the attack. Acting swiftly, the troops mobilised and arrived at the scene, with four brave farmers joining them in the effort to neutralise the threat.
The joint operation resulted in the elimination of one bandit, while the remaining criminals retreated with gunshot wounds. Two AK-47 rifles were recovered from the scene, and one of the farmers named Mallam Abdulrahman Aliyu, who sustained minor injuries during the encounter, was promptly evacuated to a nearby military hospital to receive the necessary medical attention.
Continuing their commendable efforts, on November 3, 2023, the troops undertook a clearance operation in various areas of the Chikun Local Government Area, namely Kankomi, Juji, Gwantu, Kujeni, Kikwari, and Kaso. This operation was conducted based on credible intelligence, and as a result, two bandits were successfully neutralised.
The items recovered during this clearance operation include an AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, four 7.62mm Special ammunition rounds, a Honda motorcycle, and a Techno phone. These findings serve as further evidence of the criminal activities that were being carried out in the region by the now neutralised bandits.
The General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Force Commander Operation WHIRL Media Talk Africa, Major General VU Okoro, expressed his sincere appreciation for the exceptional gallantry displayed by the troops during these operations. In particular, he extended special commendation to the brave farmers who fearlessly joined forces with the troops to confront and eliminate the bandits.
Moving forward, Major General VU Okoro urged the troops to remain resolute in their mission to completely neutralise all terrorists, bandits, and criminal elements within the division’s area of responsibility. It is through their unwavering dedication and bravery that the safety and security of the people in Kaduna State can be upheld, enabling a more peaceful and prosperous future for all.
