Gun battle in Kaduna: Troops rescue 6 victims, kill bandit, capture Ak- 47 rifles

By Mohammed Tijjani

Troops of 1 Division of the Nigerian Army have rescued six kidnapped victims, and killed one bandit, while they also captured two Ak-47 rifles in battle with bandits in Hayin Tsando general area of Maraban Jos, in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The troops who were on clearance operation in the area acted on credible and timely intelligence on the kidnap of the villagers, acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 1 Division Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Musa Yahaya said in a statement.

According to him, the victims were rescued on Friday.

“The gallant troops quickly mobilized and embarked on a search and rescue operation. The troops made contact with the bandits and criminal elements and a heavy fire fight ensued.

“During the operation, troops successfully rescued six kidnapped victims captured two AK 47 rifles and neutralized one bandit while others escaped with several degrees of gunshot wounds,” Yahaya said.

“The General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Force Commander Operation Whirl Punch Maj.- Gen. Valentine Okoro, has commended the troops for their resilience.”

Yahaya said Okoro also charged them to continue the aggressive tempo until all criminal elements in the division’s ‘Area of Responsibility’ are completely eradicated.

He also appealed to all paramedics to be on the lookout for persons with gunshot wounds and report to the Nigerian Army and other sister security services for prompt action.

(NAN)