From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Troops of the Nigerian Army in the early hours of Sunday repelled an attack by dozens of terrorists and subsequently killed two of them, while others escaped with gunshot wounds in Kaduna community.
The incident, according to the State Commissioner for internal security and home affairs, Samuel Aruwan in a statement, occured in Kankomi community of  Chikun LGA of the State.
“Troops of the Nigerian Army in the early hours of today at Kankomi, Chikun LGA, repelled an attack by dozens of bandits and subsequently neutralized one of the attackers, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.
“The Kaduna State Government was informed of the development in feedback which captured the bravery exhibited by the troops in overpowering the bandits.
“The attackers made an attempt to infiltrate the location housing the troops. The vigilant troops in response engaged them in a fierce gun duel which lasted for over an hour. This resulted in the elimination of one of the terrorists, who was wearing military camouflage combat gear. Others escaped with bullet wounds.
“The troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, seven AK47 magazines, seven rounds of ammunition and five locally made grenades from the bandits.
“Sadly, while exploiting the withdrawal route of the bandits, three corpses were found by the troops, apparently locals killed by the fleeing bandits.
“In another development, troops of Operation Forest Sanity conducted clearance patrols along the Gwagwada-Chikun-Sarkin Pawa axis, stretching from Chikun LGA to nearby interstate boundary areas.
“According to the report, contact was made with terrorists on a high ground ahead of Kafaiyo. One terrorist was neutralized, and an AK-47 rifle recovered.
“Furthermore, two terrorists fled on sighting the troops, leaving behind their motorcycles which were recovered.
‘The troops completely dislodged several terrorists’ camps around Kafaiyo, Dafako, Kopi and Gadani.
“The Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai received the feedback with sadness, and sent his deepest condolences to the families of the victims, while praying for the repose of their souls. The Governor expressed gratitude to the courageous troops for their resilient efforts and dedication.
“Meanwhile citizens in the area are advised not to harbour or provide support to suspicious persons seeking medical attention for gunshot injuries.
“Aggressive fighting patrols are in progress in the general area, and citizens will be updated on further developments”.