A notorious bandit commander, Kachalla Tukur Sharme, along with other members of his gang, has been killed in a clash with a rival group in the forest.
This information emerged following diligent follow-up operations and extensive human intelligence networks reported by Samuel Aruwan, Overseeing Commissioner of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Kaduna State, in a statement on Monday.
According to Aruwan, Sharme and other bandits were killed in a fratricidal clash. He noted that, in addition to Sharme, two other bandits from the rival group were also killed in the fierce gun duel, which enabled some kidnapped citizens to escape from captivity.
He said intelligence sources reported that five bandits were injured in the clash and were hiding in the area, seeking medical assistance for their wounds.
“Sharme, a notorious bandit who had butchered many citizens, kidnapped hundreds, and rustled innumerable herds of cattle, met his end in a battle between his group and an opposing gang.
“The clash occurred over the weekend at a location referred to as ‘Hambakko’in the Rijana and Kaso Forests, spanning Kachia and parts of Chikun and Kajuru LGAs,” he said.
Aruwan added that Sharme had repeatedly evaded security forces before being gunned down by fellow terrorists.
The commissioner noted that Sharme and his gang were largely responsible for attacks, killings, and kidnappings in Millennium City, Maraban Rido, Kujama, Kajuru, Maro, and villages in the Kateri general area, as well as in adjoining LGAs of Kagarko, Kachia, and Birnin Gwari.
His criminal activities also extended to neighbouring states of Katsina and Niger.
Aruwan explained that one of the most heinous acts committed by Sharme was the kidnapping of 121 students from Bethel Baptist High School, Kujama, Kaduna State, on July 5, 2021.
He said in the course of repelling Sharme and his gang, two security personnel paid the supreme price.
He further warned residents of Rijana, Kaso, Kasarami, Jaka da-Rabi, Kajuru, and the Dutse general areas not to assist any suspicious individuals seeking treatment for gunshot wounds.
He urged them to contact the nearest security forces or reach the Kaduna State Security Operations Room.