Fleeing bandits were reportedly neutralised by airstrikes in Birnin-Gwari local government area in Kaduna State, according to the State Government.
According to an issued statement by the States commissioner for internal security and home affairs, Samuel Aruwan, On Wednesday, at 9:44 a.m., The ministry received a distress call of armed bandits invading Sabon-Layi village in Birnin-Gwari LGA. It was confirmed that the bandits were shooting, rustling cattle, looting properties and committing other heinous crimes, a situation which had residents scampering for safety.
The statement explained that the Air Component of ‘Operation Whirl Punch’ was contacted and the unit responded to the location.
On arrival at Sabon-Layi, according to the statement, a thorough scan revealed normal human activities at the reported location, but about four kilometres North of Sabon-Layi village, the bandits were sighted fleeing for cover from the aircraft and they were engaged and neutralized in several passes.
No further movement was observed after the strike, the statement explained, adding that the aircraft sustained its presence overhead before withdrawing.
While the government awaits a formal report on the initial attack in Sabon-Layi village, the statement stated that Governor Nasir el-Rufai has praised the Air Component for the prompt action, and conveyed his gratitude for neutralising the fleeing bandits.
