Military eliminates seventy bandits in Kachia forest, Kaduna State

By Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja

The Nigerian military has neutralized seventy armed bandits and cattle rustlers in Kachia forest, Kaduna State. The Coordinator Defence Media Operations, Major General John Enenche, said the operation was conducted during a clearance patrol involving a combined ground and air offensive of troops of Operation THUNDER STRIKE under Operation ACCORD in conjunction with troops of 312 Artillery Regiment and Local Vigilantes.

The Defence spokesman said the operation followed timely and credible information regarding the bandits’ movement within the area. Enenche noted that troops pursued the bandits through Gidan Maikeri village in Chikun LGA into the forest. According to him, their location was identified and consequently engaged by Nigerian Air Force helicopter gunships. He said, “After the air interdiction, seventy (70) bandits were confirmed killed by human intelligence while others escaped with injuries.”  “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”. 

In a related development, troops of Operation YAKI apprehended 2 bandits’ logistics suppliers while blocking positions for Operation ACCORD at the outskirts of Kankomi village. Items recovered include recharge cards, cigarettes, soft drinks and groceries.