Joint Task Force operatives raided a hideout in Kano on Saturday, killing four suspected members of the Boko Haram sect during the ensuing gun battle.

JTF sources described the hideout, located at Janbulo Quarters of Rijiya Zaki in Kano, as a “magnificent building” which served as the operational base for the militants.

The raid follows the arrest of four person who were caught planting an explosive device at the Waje Friday Mosque, said to have a capacity of about 15,000.

The Boko Haram has, however, released a press statement denying reports that the suspects arrested in connection to the failed bombing attempt had anything to do with them.

Residents close to the raided hideout said they were shocked at the manner of weapons recovered after the military invasion. A Honda car rigged with explosives was discovered at the residence and security officials believe it was primed for a suicide bomb attack.

JTF spokesman in the city, Lt. Ikedichi Iweha, confirmed the operation in an interview with the Vanguard. He said the operation was carried out on information sent in by the public.

Iweha encouraged residents to continue working with security agencies in the war on terror.