operation, stormed one of the largest operational camps of the Ansaru
Terror Group (also housing other bandits and kidnappers) located in
Kuduru Forest, Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State and successfully neutralized
over 250 high-profile members of the Ansaru Terror Group.
The operation which commenced in the early hours of today, 5th February,
2020, was carried out by a combined team of operatives of Operation Puff
Adder made up of the Police Mobile Force (PMF), Counter Terrorism Unit
(CTU), Special Forces, Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Special
Tactical Squad (STS) and Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
The operation, according to a statement signed by Force Spokesman, DCP
Frank Mba, was necessitated by actionable intelligence linking terror
and criminal elements in the super camp to series of terror-related
violence, kidnappings, gun-running, cattle rustling and other heinous
crimes across the country.
Unfortunately, during the operation, a Police Bell helicopter, which
provided aerial and intelligence cover for the ground troops came under
attack from the bandits using sophisticated anti-aircraft rifles and
GPMG. Commendably, the pilot and the co-pilot who demonstrated uncommon
courage and expertise, successfully landed the aircraft at the Air Force
Base, Kaduna without further incident.
They were thereafter evacuated for medical treatment. Both officers who
sustained non-life threatening injuries are currently receiving
treatment and are in stable condition.
The Police helicopter has since been flown out of the Kaduna Air Force
Base by Police Pilots en-route to Abuja.
Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police assures citizens of safety
and sustained intelligence-led operations against bandits across the
length and breadth of the nation. He has equally applauded the
unparalleled bravery, commitment and dedication of the Police operatives
currently conducting the special mission.