Kaduna State government says troops and special forces of the Nigerian Army have neutralised 11 bandits in a battle in the Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of the State.

Birnin Gwari is the epicentre of banditry, with most incidents of kidnapping occurring in the area.

The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, confirmed the killing in a statement on Sunday in Kaduna.

Mr Aruwan said operational feedback to the Kaduna State government revealed that the troops advanced to several identified locations, and cleared bandits’ camps in Bagoma, Rema, Bugai, Dagara, Sabon Layi, Gagumi, Kakangi, Katakaki, and Randagi towns.

He explained that during the operations, the forces made contact with bandits in Kakangi and Katakaki.

“A fierce gun battle followed, after which the criminals were subdued by the troops’ aggressive firepower.

“Eleven bandits were confirmed neutralised, as others fled.

“After the battle, the troops exploited the location and recovered two AK-47 rifles, two AK-47 magazines and 57 rounds of ammunition,” he said.

The commissioner said Governor Nasir El-Rufai expressed his satisfaction with the laudable efforts of the troops.

(NAN)