KADUNA (Sundiata Post) – In an operational engagement on February 6, 2024, troops belonging to the 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, while conducting a patrol mission in the Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State, encountered insurgent forces.
In an official communication, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Lieut. Col. Musa Yahaya, relayed that a skirmish ensued during which the troops decisively neutralized four insurgents, with the remaining perpetrators fleeing the scene, likely sustaining injuries from gunfire.
He said the troops successfully seized three AK-47 rifles, along with seven AK-47 rifle magazines and two motorcycles from the insurgents.
Lieut. Col. Yahaya further disclosed that on February 7, 2024, the troops received actionable intelligence regarding the movement of insurgents.
Acting swiftly, the troops intercepted the insurgents at Kwaga village.
He said the insurgents, unable to withstand the superior firepower of the military, hastily retreated into the forest, abandoning their captives.
Yahaya highlighted the successful rescue operation conducted by the troops, rescuing all eleven hostages who were identified as Zakari Galadima (54), Ishaku Galadima (50), Habibu Illaysu (40), Nuzuli Ibrahim (18), Ramatu Aliyu (60), Ubaida Mubarak (30), Zaliha Mubarak (9 months), Umma Haruna (22), Khairatu Salisu (34), Rahamatu Usman (43), and Rakiyia Yahaya (24).
Additionally, one motorcycle was recovered during the operation.
He said preliminary investigations revealed that the victims were abducted from their village in Masuku, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State on February 6, 2024.
The victims received immediate medical attention from the Division’s medical team and were subsequently reunited with their families.
Maj. Gen. Valentine Okoro, the General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Force Commander of Operation WHIRL PUNCH, expressed commendation for the troops’ successful operation.
He urged the public to continue providing timely intelligence to the troops and other security agencies. Maj. Gen. Okoro also appealed to locals to report individuals seeking medical assistance for gunshot wounds to the appropriate authorities for prompt action.