The Kaduna State Police Command has gunned down two armed robbery suspects and arrested two others following a robbery attack on residents of Gashash Estate, Barnawa, in the early hours of Tuesday.
Spokesperson of the command, DSP Mansir Hassan, who confirmed the incident in a statement, said the armed gang, numbering about eight, stormed the residential area around 3:10 a.m., robbing occupants at gunpoint and carting away valuables including mobile phones, laptops, wristwatches, jewelry, and gaming consoles.
“Upon receipt of the distress call, the DPO Barnawa swiftly mobilised patrol teams in conjunction with officers from Kakuri and Sabon Tasha Divisions, along with military personnel from the 312 Artillery Regiment, Kalapanzi,” Hassan said.
According to the PPRO, the suspects were trailed to Makera Main Road in Kakuri, where they engaged security forces in a gun battle. Two suspects were killed during the exchange, while two others were arrested. Others escaped and are currently being tracked.
Items recovered from the scene include a locally made pistol, ammunition, seven mobile phones, two laptops, three wristwatches, two PlayStation gaming consoles, and assorted jewelry believed to have been stolen from the victims.
“One of our officers sustained injuries during the encounter and is receiving treatment at the police clinic,” Hassan added.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, commended the swift response and synergy between the police and military operatives in responding to the attack.
“Our men responded quickly, and I commend the professionalism and bravery shown. We are working round the clock to ensure the safety of residents,” the CP said.
He also warned criminal elements to steer clear of the state, saying: “Let it be known that anyone who threatens the peace of Kaduna will be met with firm resistance. We are committed to rooting out criminality in all forms.”
CP Muhammad further praised the Department of State Services (DSS) and other agencies for their support, and called on residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.