SOLDIERS KILL EIGHT TERRORISTS, FOIL ROAD ATTACK IN KATSINA

Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, on Thursday neutralised eight suspected terrorists and recovered two AK-47 rifles and five motorcycles during a successful ambush operation in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 17 Brigade Nigerian Army, Captain Abayomi Adisa, confirmed the operation in a statement issued to our correspondent in Katsina on Thursday.

Adisa said the operation followed credible intelligence that terrorists allegedly loyal to notorious kingpin Idi Abasu Aiki were planning to block the Kakumi–Guga Road and attack unsuspecting commuters.

According to him, the troops acted swiftly on the intelligence by laying an ambush along the route where the terrorists were expected to pass.

“Acting on credible intelligence, the hybrid forces operating in the area laid an ambush along the Kakumi–Guga Road after receiving information that the terrorists intended to block the road and attack unsuspecting commuters,” Adisa said.

He explained that the terrorists, who were riding on five motorcycles, engaged the troops in a fierce gun battle.

“The encounter resulted in the neutralisation of eight terrorists. Following the operation, troops conducted a search of the area and recovered two AK-47 rifles and five motorcycles belonging to the terrorists,” he stated.

Adisa added that the recovered weapons and motorcycles had been handed over to the Nigeria Police Division in Bakori for further investigation and necessary action.

He further stated that “troops deployed at the Forward Operating Bases in Ruwan Godiya and Mabai have intensified aggressive patrols and area domination operations along suspected routes leading to the affected communities to deny the criminals freedom of action and protect law-abiding residents.”

Adisa assured residents that the security situation in the area was being closely monitored, adding that troops remained on high alert to forestall further threats and sustain ongoing operations against terrorist groups operating in the state.