Troops from Sector 4 of Operation Whirl Punch, under the Nigerian Army, successfully rescued 13 hostages from a kidnappers’ hideout in Kachia Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Northwest Nigeria.
In a statement, Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, stated that the rescue mission was launched after credible intelligence revealed that bandits were moving the victims near Chigulu village in Kachia LGA.
Acting on this information, the troops swiftly mobilized and engaged the bandits in a fierce gunfight, forcing them to abandon the hostages and flee into the forest.
The operation resulted in the rescue of six men and seven women. The troops also destroyed the bandits’ camp and seized one AK-47 rifle, a locally made rifle, four AK-47 magazines, 87 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, five mobile phones, five mini solar panels, and N192,220 in cash.
The rescued individuals were taken to a military facility for medical examination and debriefing before being reunited with their families.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, commended the successful operation and praised the prompt response of the troops, led by Major General Mariyenso Saraso, General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Whirl Punch.
This comes days after troops of Operation Hadarin Daji, neutralised wanted bandit leader, Halilu Sububu, who had been unleashing terror on citizens in Zamfara, Sokoto, and other parts of north-western Nigeria.
The troops also killed another terrorist Sani Wala Burki in a Joint Operation in Katsina and busted a terrorist enclave in Kaduna, where 13 kidnapped students were freed.
President Bola Tinubu reacting commended the military high command, the intelligence agencies, and the troops for their valiant efforts, synergy, and dedication, which have resulted in the recent laudable outcomes.
He also commended the entire security apparatus for the improved security in the nation and encouraged them to sustain their efforts until immediate and latent threats are permanently removed.
President Tinubu reassured the security agencies of his continued support in achieving the priority objective of keeping the nation safe and secure.
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