TheCable

The Kaduna government says one person has been killed, while three others were injured during an attack by bandits on a community in Zangon Kataf local government area of the state.

According to Samuel Aruwan, commissioner for internal security and home affairs, a report from security agencies noted that the attack was carried out on some locals at a recreational joint in Wawan Rafi village.

He said two suspects were arrested in connection to the incident, but they were “forcibly freed” by an irate mob that accosted the security operatives while they were trailing the bandits.

Gun recovered from suspected bandits at Wawan Rafi village, Zangon Kataf LGA

“The security agencies in feedback to Kaduna State Government said a citizen, one John Isah, was confirmed dead following the attack, and three others –Fedelix Jacob, Abraham Isah and Philemon Adamu — were injured,” Aruwan said.

“The security agencies added that two AK 47 rifles were recovered, along with over 43 rounds of ammunition from two individuals, Malachi Akut and Gabas Gaje. They were immediately arrested for further interrogation.

“The security report further said while the troops were trailing the bandits, an irate mob comprising youths and some individuals launched a violent protest and forcibly freed the arrested suspects from custody, aiding their escape.

“Governor Nasir El-Rufai expressed sadness at the report, and prayed for the repose of the soul of the dead while wishing the injured speedy recovery.

“The Governor frowned at the disruption of security operations and further directed security agencies to proceed with thorough investigations into the attack and subsequent protests.”

Also, the commissioner said bandits were neutralised in air missions in some areas in the state.

He listed the areas to include Birnin Gwari, Rikau, Dogon Dawa, Saulawa, Sabon Birnin, Giwa, Igabi, Kaduna-Birnin Gwari Road and Chikun.

“Operational feedback to the state government revealed that Rikau was observed to be active with bandits. The location was engaged accordingly, with several bandits neutralised,” Aruwan explained in a statement.

“Similarly, about 3km southeast of Saulawa, bandits were seen fleeing from the air raid with herds of cattle. They were engaged and neutralised.

“Ground troops at Dogon Dawa and Sabon Birni reported a calm situation. All other areas covered were likewise calm with no suspicious activity observed.

“In a subsequent mission, armed reconnaissance was conducted over Kampanin Doka, Maganda, Farin Ruwa, Nachibi, Kwasakwasa, Sabon Kuyello, Sabon Layilasan and environs.

“At Maganda, two bandits were engaged and neutralised as they tried to escape the notice of the fighter jet crew.

“Ground troops reported bandit activities at Gatarawa, close to Rumana. While the crew did not establish clear contact, the location was strafed with probing shots into the dense vegetation.

“Normal activities were observed along the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari road and other locations covered.”

Aruwan added that vigorous ground and air patrols are set to continue in various areas across the state.