By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has intensified clearance operations in Kogi State, neutralising two suspected kidnappers and recovering arms and thousands of rounds of ammunition during a follow-up operation in Edimogbo Forest, Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, conducted on November 3, 2026, by troops of the 12 Composite Brigade, 5 Division, Nigerian Army, was part of sustained efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and dismantle kidnapping networks operating in the area.
According to an official statement signed by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Composite Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, the operation followed an earlier raid on a suspected kidnappers’ hideout in the same forest on November 2, during which troops made contact with the criminals.
The statement said troops subsequently sustained the exploitation of the forest to track fleeing suspects, clear remaining hideouts and deny the criminals freedom of action.
During the follow-up operation, the troops again encountered the fleeing criminal elements and engaged them, forcing the suspects to withdraw into the surrounding forest.
The encounter resulted in the neutralisation of two kidnappers, while others escaped.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, 438 rounds of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition, 4,725 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, two bandoliers, two mobile phones and a power bank.
The Army said the latest operation had further consolidated the gains recorded during the previous day’s raid, stressing that troops would sustain pressure on criminal elements operating within the Brigade’s area of responsibility.
It added that troops continued to dominate the general area, with their morale and fighting efficiency remaining high.
The Nigerian Army reassured residents of Kogi State of its commitment to sustaining operations against criminal elements, protecting lives and property, and restoring lasting peace and security across the state.
