Three bandits killed, 2,000 cows recovered in Kaduna

Acting Inspector-General of Police, solomon Arase

THE joint security operation initiated by Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai to end cattle rustling in the state has yielded positive results as security agents recovered over 2,000 cows in Birnin Gwari council area on Tuesday.

The exchange of gunfire between the security agents and armed bandits led to the death of three of the suspects and arrest of nine others.

Speaking with journalists after a visit to the location of the rescued cows in Birnin Gwari Council, El-Rufai commended the Nigerian armed forces and other security agencies for the gallantry operations, which led to the arrest of the bandits.

The governor said similar joint operations were ongoing in other states like Niger, Katsina, Zamfara and Kebbi, even as he called on the people to pray for the security personnel to end the activities of bandits in the state.

He stated that: “So far, we are very proud of the work done by Nigerian armed forces and other security agencies in trying to solve this lingering problem. We ask our people to pray for them while carrying out this operation so that there will be minimal casualties on their side.

“The operation is a joint one currently going on in five states, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna and Niger, which have forests where bandits hide to commit this crime. The Army, Airforce, Police, SSS and Civil Defence are all involved in this operation.”

It would be recalled that governors from these states met recently and agreed on a joint security operation to combat bandits hiding in the forests bordering their states.

Conducting Governor El-Rufai and his entourage round the operation site in Damari, Birnin Gwari, Captain Al Ujah said, “nine bandits were arrested and three killed during the exchange of gun shots.”

“The operation is ongoing and we believe victory will be ours based on the progress we’ve made so far. The joint security operation is headed by our boss, Brigadier General S. Malu.”

Residents of Birnin Gwari communities commended the governor for his initiative to combat the incessant attacks that has led to the death of many residents and shutting down of businesses.