From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
The Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch on Wednesday pounded and killed several fleeing terrorists at a location in Birnin Gwari local government area of Kaduna.
Reports said the terrorists were seen by the aircraft, fleeing at about 9:44am, after attacking Sabon Layi village in Birnin Gwari LGA.
A statement by the Commissioner of internal security and home affairs, Samuel Aruwan said, “At around 9:44am, the Ministry received a distress call of armed bandits attacking Sabon Layi village in Birnin Gwari LGA.
“It was confirmed that the bandits were shooting, rustling cattle, looting properties and committing other heinous crimes, a situation which had residents scampering for safety.
“Immediately, the Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch was contacted for action, and the unit responded promptly to the location.
“On arrival at Sabon Layi, a thorough scan revealed normal human activities at the reported location. However, about four kilometers North of Sabon Layi village, the bandits were sighted fleeing for cover from the aircraft. They were engaged and neutralized in several passes.
“No further movement was observed after the strike. The aircraft sustained its presence overhead before withdrawing.
“While the government awaits a formal report on the initial attack in Sabon Layi village, Governor Nasir El-Rufai has praised the Air Component for the prompt action, and conveyed his gratitude for neutralizing the fleeing bandits”.