Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade, Lokoja, have foiled the movement of suspected bandits in Kogi State, neutralising three suspects and arresting a logistics supplier during coordinated operations.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday in Lokoja by the Brigade’s spokesperson, Lt. Hassan Abdullahi.
According to the statement, the operation took place on Saturday, January 3, as part of ongoing efforts to curb banditry and kidnapping in the state. Troops conducted fighting patrols and laid ambushes in Kabba Bunu and Yagba West Local Government Areas, acting on credible intelligence about the movement of bandits from the Adankolo general area.
Abdullahi said troops ambushed bandits heading towards Agbadu Bunu, resulting in the neutralisation of two suspects. During the encounter, an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, ammunition, a locally fabricated firearm and cartridges were recovered.
He added that the bandits were forced to withdraw during the engagement, with signs suggesting additional casualties.
In a separate operation, troops working in collaboration with local vigilantes engaged bandits around Saminaka village in Yagba West Local Government Area. One suspect was neutralised, and another AK-47 rifle with ammunition was recovered.
The Army spokesperson also confirmed the arrest of a suspected logistics supplier to the bandits, identified as Sunday Adedotun. Items recovered from the suspect’s residence included energy drinks, soft drinks, bottled water and harvested farm produce. The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing investigation.
Abdullahi said the successful operations demonstrate sustained pressure on criminal elements and their support networks across the state.
He noted that the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Kasim Sidi, commended the troops for their professionalism, courage and swift response to intelligence, assuring residents that aggressive patrols and operations would continue to deny criminals freedom of action in Kogi State.
