By Mohammed Bello Doka
In a display of unwavering commitment to combating insurgency and ensuring the safety of communities in Kaduna State, troops of the 1 Division Nigerian Army (NA) have once again demonstrated their valor and effectiveness.
On the morning of February 6, 2024, a routine patrol led by troops in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area was met with unexpected contact with insurgents. Swiftly responding to the threat, the troops engaged the insurgents in a fierce firefight. Amidst the chaos of battle, four insurgents were neutralized, and several others managed to evade capture, fleeing into the nearby forest with gunshot wounds. However, the bravery and determination of the troops prevailed, leading to the recovery of significant weaponry, including three AK-47 rifles and two motorcycles, crucial resources that would have been used to perpetrate further violence and terror.
The following day, acting on timely intelligence, troops stationed in Birnin Gwari received word of insurgent movement in Kwaga village. Responding with remarkable agility, the troops swiftly mobilized to intercept the insurgents. As the confrontation unfolded, the insurgents, overwhelmed by the superior firepower and strategic maneuvering of the troops, abandoned their nefarious mission, leaving behind their captives in a desperate bid to escape into the dense foliage of the forest.
The rescue operation that ensued was a testament to the professionalism and compassion of the Nigerian Army. Eleven individuals, hailing from Masuku village in the troubled Shiroro Local Government Area of neighboring Niger State, were freed from the clutches of their captors. Among the liberated were Zakari Galadima, Ishaku Galadima, Habibu Illaysu, Nuzuli Ibrahim, Ramatu Aliyu, Ubaida Mubarak, Zaliha Mubarak, Umma Haruna, Khairatu Salisu, Rahamatu Usman, and Rakiyia Yahaya. Their release brought tears of relief and gratitude as they were reunited with their families, who had endured agonizing uncertainty during their harrowing ordeal.
The rescued individuals were promptly attended to by the medical team of the Division, receiving much-needed care and attention. Their physical wounds were treated with diligence and compassion, while efforts were made to provide emotional support and reassurance to help them overcome the trauma of their abduction.
Maj Gen Valentine Okoro, the esteemed General Officer Commanding 1 Division NA and Force Commander Operation WHIRL PUNCH, lauded the exemplary performance of the troops involved in the operation. He emphasized the pivotal role of timely intelligence and urged the public to continue collaborating with security agencies, providing vital information that could preempt and thwart future attacks.
As the sun sets on another successful mission, the operation serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, reaffirming the Nigerian Army's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of citizens and restoring peace and stability to the region.
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