Troops deployed for Operation Whirl Punch in the North-West zone have dealt a significant blow to bandits, eliminating four criminals, including the notorious Dongon Bangaje, during intense fighting patrols in Kaduna State’s Giwa Local Government Area.

In a statement issued by Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, it was revealed that the operation commenced with a special fighting patrol in Tumburku village, extending to Sabon Sara, both within Giwa LGA.

Acting on credible intelligence, the troops encountered bandits fleeing Sabon Sara and promptly engaged them in a fierce pursuit. Resulting from the skirmish, two bandits were neutralized, and a cache of items, including a motorcycle, mobile phone, gas lighters, assorted charms, and a polythene bag containing petrol, were recovered.

A subsequent operation in Basurfe village, located southwest of Kindandan, saw troops confront and neutralize two more bandits amidst an ambush.

The troops also dismantled a camp, identified as a treatment area for the insurgents.

Recovered from the scene were two AK-47 rifles, one pump-action rifle, three magazines, 16 rounds of ammunition, one Improvised Explosive Device (IED), two radios, and a motorcycle. Additionally, cigarettes, drugs, and medical accessories were seized.

Among the neutralized bandits was a notorious leader known as Dogo Bangaje, along with an unidentified close associate, according to security reports.