Troops of the 12 Brigade, 2 Division of the Nigerian Army have disrupted a planned kidnapping operation in Kogi State, killing one suspected terrorist and recovering weapons during a carefully executed ambush.
The operation took place in Lokoja Local Government Area following intelligence reports that armed criminals were preparing to carry out abductions around Jakura II Community.
According to a statement issued on Saturday in Lokoja by the brigade’s spokesperson, Lt. Hassan Abdullahi, soldiers were deployed to a suspected route used by the terrorists along the Old Obajana-Tajimi Road.
He said the troops successfully blocked the movement of the criminal group and engaged them in a firefight when contact was established.
“As troops came into contact with the terrorists, they responded with effective firepower,” Abdullahi said.
“One terrorist was neutralised during the exchange, while other members of the group fled the scene with suspected gunshot injuries.”
The army spokesman disclosed that a subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of significant items, including an AK-47 rifle, five magazines, 70 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a bandolier and mobile phones.
He noted that the recovered weapons and equipment reinforced suspicions that the group had been involved in kidnapping activities within the area.
Abdullahi said the operation reflected the brigade’s commitment to maintaining offensive actions against terrorists and other criminal elements threatening public safety.
He added that troops were continuing follow-up operations to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
The Commander of the 12 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Kasim Sidi, praised the troops for their alertness, professionalism and dedication during the operation.
The Nigerian Army also assured residents that security operations would continue across the area and appealed to the public to support security agencies with credible and timely intelligence.
(NAN)
