The Kaduna State Government said security operatives in the state have continued to strengthen the operational system against bandits in various locations in the state, with a view to dislodging criminal elements.
The state government disclosed on Friday that security operatives did not give kidnappers and other criminal elements breathing space, just as security operatives raided criminals’ hideouts around Birnin Gwari and Kaduna-Abuja road.
In a statement on Friday, the state Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr. Samuel Aruwan, said, “Air platforms on Thursday conducted armed missions over identified bandit locations in Birnin Gwari local government area.
“According to the operational feedback to the Kaduna State Government, the fighter jet was deployed following the sighting of armed bandits on motorcycles around Rikau.
“However, the crew were unable to make clear contact as the bandits scrambled beneath dense vegetation to avoid being spotted by the fighter jet. Probing shots were nevertheless fired on the suspected hideout.”
The statement further added that, “a second crew conducted air patrols along the Kaduna-Abuja highway, followed by a night patrol through the expressway to Jere, Kateri, Akilbu, Polewire, Rijana and Olam Farms. Normal human and vehicular traffic was observed all through the mission.
“Governor Nasir El-Rufai received the feedback with gratitude, commending the troops and fighter jet crews for the frequency of patrols in the areas of interest.
“Troops are sustaining aggressive fighting patrols on the ground and in the air, along the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari, Kaduna-Abuja and Kaduna-Saminaka-Jos roads,” the statement said.