By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Nigerian Army have destroyed a suspected kidnappers’ hideout in Edimogbo Forest, Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State, recovering 1,000 rounds of ammunition, six motorcycles and other items during an offensive operation.
The operation was conducted by troops of the 21 Battalion Quick Reaction Force (QRF) following credible human intelligence indicating the presence of suspected kidnappers operating from the forest.
According to an official statement signed by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the troops swiftly mobilised to the identified location to track down the criminal elements and dismantle their hideout.
On sighting the advancing troops, the suspected kidnappers reportedly fired a shot to alert other members of their group before fleeing deeper into the forest.
The troops immediately pursued the fleeing suspects but did not make contact with them. They, however, destroyed the criminal camp, including its supporting structures, to prevent further use of the location as a hideout.
Items recovered during the operation included 1,000 rounds of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition, seven bandoliers, two shovels, a hand pump, a mobile phone, a Glo modem, two packets of soap, a jerrycan of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), clothing, pairs of shoes and six motorcycles.
The Army said exploitation of the general area was still ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent them from regrouping.
It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against kidnappers and other criminal elements threatening the safety and security of law-abiding citizens.
The Nigerian Army also urged members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies to support ongoing operations and efforts to dismantle criminal networks across the country.
