Through aerial surveillance and precision bombardment, we have strengthened intelligence gathering, supported ground operations and denied criminal elements the freedom to operate,” he said. Security sources said Aiki, who was believed to have masterminded several attacks across Katsina and Zamfara States, was among those killed in the operation. They, however, added that four members of the Katsina State Community Vigilantes and the specially trained hunters also lost their lives during the confrontation. According to one of the sources, more than 200 heavily armed bandits led by Aiki had invaded Guga village in Bakori LGA. However, the source said the planned assault was thwarted by the DSS, which had gathered intelligence ahead of the operation.