…recovers 1 AK-47 rifle
By FOLUSHO ALADE, ABUJA
Troops of Operation Sahel Sanity have neutralized an armed bandit in the Dajin Wuta Forest area of Katsina State, North-West zone in a clearance operation.
According to a report from the Defence Media Operations (DMO) the troops also rescued 2 teenage girls kidnapped at Munhaye village by suspected bandits at Dan Aji village in Faskari LGA of Katsina State while one A-K 47 rifle was also recovered.
The report contained in a press statement signed by BRIG GEN BENARD ONYEUKO, acting director Defence Media Operations read in full:
“ In continues effort to clear armed bandits and other criminal elements so as to return sanity to the Northwest zone, troops of Operation SAHEL SANITY have intensified the tempo of offensive operation within the theatre, thus, recorded more successes against the bandits.
“On 12 November 2020, troops while on routine patrol along the fringes of Dajin Wuta Forest came in contact with bandits on motorcycles. In their attempt to escape from the advancing troops, the terrified bandits ineffectively opened fire and withdrew into the forest but the resilient troops gave them a hot pursuit with overwhelming fire power.
“In the aftermath of the encounter, one bandit was neutralized and one AK-47 rifle loaded with 27 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition was captured while several others are believed to have escaped with varying degrees of gunshot wounds as evident in the trails of blood along their escape routes during exploitation. Troops continue to dominate the general area in search of any straying bandit.
“Also, on 11 November 2020, troops deployed at Angwan Doka, during a clearance operation rescued 2 teenage girls at Munhaye village. Preliminary investigation revealed that the duo were kidnapped by suspected bandits at Dan Aji village in Faskari LGA of Katsina State. The victims also revealed that their abductors freed them and fled on noticing troops presence in the area.
“To this end, the gallant troops of Operation SAHEL SANITY are commended for the successes achieved and their commitment. They are further urged not to rest on their oars until the Northwest zone is rid of all criminal activities. Additionally, the good people of the Northwest are once more assured of the troops’ commitment to safety of lives and properties within the zone. They are also encourage to avail the troops with timely and credible Information that will assist in the conduct of their operations”. The statement said.