The Defence Headquarters says troops of Operation Accord have arrested 11 illegal miners and eliminated scores of bandits on Nov. 21 in parts of Zamfara and Katsina States.
The Coordinator, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. John Enenche, in a statement on Monday, said the troops continued to record successes in the fight against banditry and other criminal acts in the zone.
Enenche said the troops apprehended the illegal miners following credible intelligence on their activities at Kadauri in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara.
He disclosed that the suspects had been handed over to the appropriate prosecuting authority for further action.
The coordinator said the troops also eliminated two bandits and recovered two AK 47 rifles while on covert operation at Galadi village in Shinkafi Local Government Area of the state on November 21.
According to him, troops also neutralised several bandits and rescued three kidnapped victims during clearance operation at Sabon Tunga and Tamuske villages.
“The gallant troops supported by Nigerian Air Force helicopter gunships bombarded bandits’ enclaves at Dutsen Emai in Zamfara.
“On the same date, troops, while on routine patrol at Gobirawa village, killed six bandits while four AK47 rifles, three Dane guns and two motorcycles were recovered,” he said.
Enenche further disclosed that troops arrested a wanted bandit’s informant known as Shafiu Suleman, who masterminded the recent kidnapping of some people within Kwatarkwashi district of Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara.
He said that the troops also neutralised one bandit and arrested two in an encounter at Gidan Ruwa along Rukudawa axis of Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara on Sunday following distress call from locals.
The defence spokesman added that one AK 47 rifle and one magazine loaded with 29 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition were recovered.
According to him, troops also on Sunday, arrested a suspected kidnap kingpin in Kurfi Local Government Area of Katsina State following credible intelligence.
“The suspect who has been on the wanted list is presently in custody for further action.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies will not relent until all enemies of the Nation are neutralised and normalcy is restored to all troubled zones,” he said.