By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Lokoja, have foiled a bandits’ attack in Kogi State, neutralising two suspected bandits, arresting a logistics supplier, and recovering arms and ammunition during coordinated security operations over the weekend.The operation, which took place across Kabba/Bunu and Yagba West Local Government Areas, followed credible intelligence on the movement of armed bandits within the state. The development was confirmed in a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi.
According to the statement, troops acting on intelligence reports about bandits moving from the Adankolo axis toward Agbadu Bunu in Kabba/Bunu LGA swiftly deployed and laid an ambush at a known crossing point frequently used by the criminals.“The bandits ran into the troops’ ambush position and were engaged, forcing them to withdraw in disarray,” Abdullahi said. “Subsequent exploitation of the area revealed bloodstains, indicating casualties among the fleeing bandits.” The statement disclosed that during the encounter, troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, 99 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one locally fabricated firearm, and 11 cartridges.
In a related operation, further intelligence revealed the presence of bandits around Saminaka village in Yagba West LGA. Troops, working in collaboration with local vigilante groups, conducted a fighting patrol into the village and surrounding forested areas. On arrival, the troops observed that Saminaka village had been deserted, prompting a dismounted search of nearby forests and access routes leading toward the Saminaka–Sabo Rijiya road.
During the follow-up exploitation, the troops traced the withdrawal route of the criminals and discovered another neutralised bandit, alongside one AK-47 rifle and 17 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. The operation also led to the arrest of a suspected bandits’ logistics supplier, identified as Sunday Adedotun, a resident of Odo Eri village in Yagba West LGA. He was apprehended on farmland within Saminaka village.
According to the army, items recovered from the suspect’s settlement included cartons of energy drinks, soft drinks, bottled water, and harvested farm produce, believed to be supplies intended for criminal groups operating in the area. The suspect is currently in military custody and undergoing further investigation.
Commending the troops, the Commander of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, praised their professionalism, courage, and timely response to actionable intelligence. He assured residents that the Nigerian Army would continue to sustain aggressive patrols, ambushes, and intelligence-driven operations to deny criminal elements freedom of action across Kogi State.The latest operation underscores ongoing efforts by security forces to dismantle bandit networks and restore peace in vulnerable communities within the state.
