Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Defence Headquarters says that troops of Operation THUNDER STRIKE have killed 70 bandits in Kachia, Kaduna State.
The troops under Operation ACCORD, working in conjunction with troops of 312 Artillery Regiment and Local Vigilantes, are said to have killed the bandits while on a clearance patrol to Kachia Forest.
Coordinator, Defence Media Operations, Major General John Enenche, made this known in a statement.
Gen Enenche said several others escaped with injuries and called on people of the area to report anyone with sudden and suspicious injuries to the security agencies.
His statement reads:
‘In a combined ground and air offensive on 5 June 2020, troops of Operation THUNDER STRIKE under Operation ACCORD in conjunction with troops of 312 Artillery Regiment and Local Vigilantes conducted a clearance patrol to Kachia Forest and neutralized some armed bandits/cattle rustlers. This followed timely and credible information on the bandit’s movement within the area. Troops pursued the bandits through Gidan Maikeri village in Chikun LGA into the forest. Their location was identified and consequently engaged by Nigerian Air Force helicopter gunships. After the air interdiction, seventy (70) bandits were confirmed killed by human intelligence while others escaped with injuries. The troops are exploiting the forest. Details to follow as they unfold.
‘As a matter of security concern, people in this general area should report those with sudden and suspicious injuries to the security forces. This is to ensure that the escapees are mopped up.
‘Relatedly, troops of Operation YAKI in blocking positions for Operation ACCORD at outskirts of Kankomi village apprehended 2 bandits’ logistics suppliers. Items recovered include: recharge cards, cigarettes, soft drinks and groceries.
‘The Military High Command congratulates Operation THUNDER STRIKE, Operation YAKI and Air Component of Operation ACCORD, for their dexterity. While the general public is requested to continue to provide timely and credible information that would assist in eliminating bandits and other criminal elements in the country.’