Kaduna, Nigeria – Troops of the Special Forces of Operation Whirl Punch (OPWP) have successfully neutralized five terrorists in the Dantarau area of Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State. This operation is part of ongoing special fighting patrols in the Kachia-Kajuru axis aimed at curbing banditry and terrorism.
In a statement on Sunday, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, confirmed the development, highlighting that the information had been communicated to the Kaduna State Government as part of an operational feedback.
Aruwan detailed the mission, stating that troops embarked on an operation to clear the Maro-Enugu axis, spanning Kachia and Kajuru Local Government Areas, when they encountered the bandits. “At Dantarau community, the troops made contact with bandits and after a sharp exchange, five of the criminals were neutralized,” he said.
Read Also: Troops neutralise notorious IPOB commander, Tochukwu, 2 others in Imo
The operation also led to the recovery of significant arms and equipment from the bandits, including two AK-47 rifles, one locally fabricated sub-machine gun, nine AK-47 magazines, 250 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, two motorcycles, and two handheld radio sets.
Further complementing this ground operation, the Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch successfully targeted and destroyed bandit camps in the Sabon Birnin Daji area of Igabi Local Government Area. Credible human intelligence sources confirmed the successful air strikes, resulting in several bandits being neutralized. Reports indicate that some bandits sustained injuries and are seeking medical aid in the area.
Aruwan urged local residents to refrain from providing medical assistance to any questionable individuals without consulting the nearest security agencies. He advised citizens to report suspicious activities to the 24 Operations Room via the numbers: 09034000060 and 08170189999.
Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, praised the troops for their successful operation. He commended the determined efforts of the General Officer Commanding, 1 Division Nigerian Army, Major General MLD Saraso, and his team. Additionally, the governor lauded the Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, Air Vice Marshall NN Ananaba, and his team for their outstanding contributions to the state’s security.
