Security operatives killed no fewer than 30 bandits during a special operation in Kaduna and Niger States.
Firearms, including automatic rifles, AK47, AK49 and two rocket-propelled guns were recovered from the bandits.
It was gathered that the personnel, comprising mobile policemen and soldiers, stormed the hoodlums’ hideouts in Birnin Gwari and Rijana communities in Kaduna State and Kagara in Niger State.
Sources disclosed to The PUNCH on Tuesday that 15 persons who supplied information to the bandits were also apprehended in Kaduna metropolis, adding that they are currently undergoing interrogation.
A community chief in Rijana area was also arrested for allegedly conniving with the criminals in the area.
An operative who took part in the joint security operation said, “Some volunteers led us to the camps and hideouts of the bandits in Kaduna and Niger States. The bandits had left some of the camps before we got there, abandoning huge quantities of food, motorcycles and clothes.
“During the operation, we were able to eliminate over 30 bandits and arrested 15 informants. Some of our men sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire with the hoodlums.”
The source further stated, “The government paid the volunteers who led the operatives to the camps; this is what we have been advocating for a long time. Appreciating support from the civil populace would boost the war against insurgency and other criminality in the country.”
Our correspondent learnt that the operation against the bandits would be sustained till November.
The force spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, could not be reached for comment as he did not respond to telephone calls on Tuesday.
He had yet to reply to a text message sent to him as of the time of filing this report.
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