The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) on Thursday said in the aftermath of the Police counter-terrorism operations which neutralised the operational bases of the Ansaru Terrorists’ Group and bandits in Kuduru forests, Kaduna State, one Haruna Basullube, one of the most wanted kidnappers/cattle rustlers in the country and one Bashir Leta, another bandits’ commander were killed.

Police spokesman, DCP Frank Mba, also said one Mallam Abba Commander of Boko Haram camp in Kuduru Forest and one Mofa, a notorious kidnapper were critically injured.

He said as mop-up operations continue, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Mohammed Adamu has deployed detectives and special forensic investigators from the Force Headquarters to expedite investigations into the criminal enterprise of the group and their associates.

He said in spite of the successes of the operation, one Inspector Muhammed Abubakar attached to the Police Special Forces regrettably died as a result of injuries sustained in the heat of the combat.

He said, “Thirteen other officers made up of 2 SPs, 1 DSP, 4 Inspectors and 6 Sergeants including the Pilot and Co-pilot of the Police helicopter, sustained different degrees of injuries and are currently receiving treatment.”

He said the late Inspector Muhammed Abubakar was one of the finest officers of the Police Special Forces with vast training and operational background, both at home and abroad.

Mba said, “He was among the pioneer set of the Police Special Forces trained in Belarus. Born on July 8, 1985, he was enlisted into the Nigeria Police on June 1, 2008 as a Constable and rose to the rank of Inspector of Police before his untimely death.

“As a member of the Special Forces, he participated in several successful Police operations and joint missions with the military in the fight against insurgency both in and outside the North-eastern part of the country.

“While condoling with the family, friends, and professional colleagues of the late officer, the IGP restates the commitment of the Force to the safety of its personnel and the nation.”

Mba said exhibits recovered by the Police during the operation include 11 AK47 rifles, 730 rounds of live AK47 ammunition, 152 rounds of GPMG ammunition in two chains, 13 pairs of military camouflage uniforms, 2 cartons and 48 sachets of tramadol, four facemasks, phones and other electronic gadgets which are currently subject of forensic investigations.

He added that citizens living in and around Birnin-Gwari axis of Kaduna state have been enjoined to be on the lookout for fleeing bandits especially those with bullet wounds and report every suspicious behavior to the Police. (Daily Trust)

•Text (excluding headline): Daily Trust.

Update news