Troops rescue 13 hostages, dislodge bandits in Kaduna

Troops under Sector 4 of Operation Whirl Punch have rescued 13 hostages and dislodged a bandits’ hideout in a fierce gun battle in Kaduna State. The operation also led to the recovery of arms, ammunition, and other items.

According to Samuel Aruwan, Overseeing Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, the troops stormed a kidnappers’ den in Kachia Local Government Area after receiving credible intelligence about bandits moving kidnapped victims near Chigulu village.

“The troops mobilised for a rescue operation at the suspected bandits’ camp. Upon arrival, an intense gun battle ensued. The bandits were subdued and fled into the dense forest, abandoning their hostages,” Aruwan stated.

The rescued hostages included six men and seven women. The troops also destroyed the bandits’ camp and recovered one AK-47 rifle, a locally made rifle, four AK-47 magazines, 87 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, five mini solar panels, five mobile phones, and N192,220 in cash.

Aruwan confirmed that the hostages were taken to a military facility for medical examination and debriefing before being reunited with their families.

Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani praised the swift response of the troops, led by Major General MLD Saraso, Commander of Operation Whirl Punch. He congratulated the soldiers for the successful operation and conveyed his goodwill to the rescued hostages.