Troops of 12 Brigade, under the 2 Division Nigerian Army, have foiled a planned kidnapping plot in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State, neutralising one terrorist and recovering weapons during the operation.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations,12 Brigade Nigeria, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi.

According to the statement, the operation was carried out on 30 May 2026 following credible intelligence indicating plans by terrorists to carry out kidnapping activities within Jakura II Community.

The statement explained that troops swiftly deployed to a suspected terrorist crossing point along the the Old Obajana–Tajimi Road, where an ambush was laid to deny the criminals freedom of action.

It noted that troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them with effective fire, leading to the neutralisation of one terrorist, while other members of the criminal group fled the scene with suspected gunshot wounds.

The statement added that further exploitation led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, five magazines, 70 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one bandolier and mobile phones.

According to the Army, the recovered items further corroborate the involvement of the criminal elements in kidnapping activities within the area.

“The successful operation demonstrates the resolve of troops of 12 Brigade to sustain offensive operations against terrorists and other criminal elements threatening the security of law-abiding citizens,” the statement read.

It added that further exploitation of the area is ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing terrorists.

The Commander, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi commended the troops for their vigilance, combat efficiency and commitment to duty.

He also reassured residents of the Brigade’s determination to maintain pressure on terrorists and other criminal elements while urging members of the public to continue providing timely and actionable intelligence to security agencies.