By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

Governor Nasir El-Rufa’i has commended security forces for repelling an attack by armed bandits on the Kaduna International Airport on Saturday.

A statement late Saturday by Samuel Aruwan Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Kaduna State, said troops stationed within and around the airport responded and repelled the attackers.

“However the bandits unfortunately shot and killed a staff member stationed at the perimeter fence who raised alarm on sighting them,” the commissioner said.

He said airport operations resumed with scheduled flights departing after the incident.

Aruwan also stated that security forces are conducting operations in the airport general area adding: “Further updates will be communicated to the public.

“Governor Nasir El-Rufa’i commended the security forces for their prompt response to the attack, and for repelling the attackers.

“He expressed sadness at the report of the casualty, and sent condolences to the family of the victim, while offering prayers for the repose of his soul.”

El-Rufai also expressed shock over the explosion of a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was detonated around Yazufa Junction, Hayin Danmani, Igabi LGA, after it was planted in a motorcycle belonging to one Mohammed Hassan, a POS operator in the area.

Aruwan confirmed the attack in another statement on Saturday in Kaduna.

He said preliminary investigations revealed that Hassan at the close of business, went to pick up his motorcycle where it was parked close to his shop, and upon starting the motorcycle, it exploded.

The explosion, according to Aruwan, resulted in serious injuries to Hassan and a yet-unidentified passer-by. There was also damage to the roof of nearby structure.

The commissioner said personnel of the police anti-bomb squad arrived at the scene to remove the debris and also disabled a second device found planted in the motorcycle.

He said: “The injured duo are receiving treatment, in a medical facility as investigations proceed.

“Governor Nasir El-Rufa’i expressed shock and sadness at the report, and wished the injured persons a speedy recovery.

“He reiterated calls for increased vigilance by citizens to the threat of explosives being placed by terrorists to cause harm and destruction.

“Investigations are ongoing into the incident.”

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