The military deployed to combat banditry in Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State have successfully neutralized many of the bandits in coordinated attacks in the region.

It was gathered that the coordinated ground and air strikes by the troops of Operation Whirl Punch successfully neutralized the bandits, including some of their leaders at an identified meeting point near Bula community within Yadi Forest in Giwa LGA.

Overseeing Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Kaduna State Samuel Aruwan, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday.

According to him, an operational feedback to the State Government indicated that the strike was based on credible intelligence which followed the recent elimination of some bandit kingpins along the Kaduna-Katsina border areas.

He explained that intelligence report had earlier revealed that bandits were to converge on the area for a meeting on a deadly mission within the Yadi Forest genera area.

“Close monitoring followed, and at the agreed time, the bandits were sighted bearing arms and approaching the location on motorcycles.

“Further exploration confirmed the movements and convergence of the bandits in a group of about seven to ten members at a hub in the location.

“Upon verification, the location was struck and scores of the bandits including one Alhaji Kachalla Ragas – an ally and childhood friend of the previously neutralized Buharin Yadi – were confirmed to have been neutralized by the strike,” he said.

Receiving the report, the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, expressed his satisfaction and warmly commended the security forces for their quick response, diligent efforts and precise execution.

The Governor thanked the various sources who provided crucial intelligence leading to the successful strike.