In a significant blow to criminal activities in Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State, several notorious bandits have been eliminated in a coordinated military attack. Reports indicate that Samuel Aruwan, the Overseeing Commissioner of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs in Kaduna State, revealed this information in a statement issued on Friday.
Aruwan stated that the operation involved both ground and air strikes executed by the troops of Operation Whirl Punch. These strikes successfully neutralized the bandits, including several of their leaders, at a well-known meeting point near the Bula community within the Yadi Forest area of Giwa LGA.
The operation’s success was based on credible intelligence, which followed the recent elimination of some key bandit kingpins along the Kaduna-Katsina border areas. According to Aruwan, this intelligence indicated that the bandits planned to gather at the identified location for a meeting related to a deadly mission within the Yadi Forest general area.
The intelligence report had revealed the precise timing and location of the bandits’ convergence. “Close monitoring followed, and at the agreed time, the bandits were sighted bearing arms and approaching the location on motorcycles,” said Aruwan. The bandits, numbering between seven to ten, were then confirmed to be gathering at a specific hub within the forest.
“Further exploration confirmed the movements and convergence of the bandits in a group of about seven to ten members at a hub in the location,” he continued. This careful verification led to the decision to strike the location, resulting in the neutralization of numerous bandits. Among those killed was Alhaji Kachalla Ragas, a notorious bandit and a close associate of the previously neutralized Buharin Yadi.
The precise and well-coordinated nature of the operation highlights the effectiveness of the joint military efforts and the critical role of intelligence in combating banditry in the region. The troops’ ability to execute the plan without any reported collateral damage underscores the professionalism and efficiency of the security forces involved.
Reacting to the successful operation, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, expressed his deep satisfaction and commended the security forces for their swift response and diligent efforts. “I warmly commend the security forces for their quick response, diligent efforts and precise execution,” Governor Sani remarked. His acknowledgment of the various intelligence sources that contributed to the success of the strike further emphasizes the collaborative effort needed to combat such criminal activities.
Governor Sani also extended his gratitude to the individuals and groups who provided the crucial intelligence that made the operation possible. The successful neutralization of these bandits not only disrupts their operations but also sends a strong message about the state’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the region.
The elimination of these bandits marks a significant achievement in the ongoing battle against banditry in Kaduna State. It underscores the importance of coordinated military actions and reliable intelligence in addressing the security challenges faced by the region. The state’s approach, which combines military might with strategic intelligence gathering, appears to be yielding positive results, as evidenced by this latest operation.
As the state continues to grapple with the menace of banditry, such decisive actions provide a glimmer of hope for the residents of Kaduna State. The government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing security and the proactive measures taken by the security forces are crucial steps towards restoring normalcy and ensuring the safety of the populace.
