By Nkechi Eze
Troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army have recorded another operational success against terrorist elements operating within Kogi State following a coordinated ambush operation along suspected bandit crossing routes in the Adankolo Forest Reserve in Lokoja Local Government Area.
According to an official signed statement by the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, the operation was carried out in the early hours of Sunday, 10 May 2026, based on credible intelligence regarding the movement of suspected terrorists within the area.
Lieutenant Abdullahi disclosed that troops of the 12 Brigade Quick Response Group laid ambush at a suspected crossing point where they later made contact with the terrorists.
During the ensuing firefight, one terrorist was neutralised while several others reportedly escaped into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds.
The troops subsequently recovered two AK-47 rifles, one fabricated pistol, six magazines and 145 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition from the scene.
Other items recovered during the operation included one camouflage bandolier, one Honda motorcycle, Diclofenac medication, three mobile phones, three power banks and the sum of Sixty-Two Thousand, Nine Hundred Naira (₦62,900).
The statement noted that the successful operation forms part of ongoing clearance and counterterrorism efforts being conducted by 12 Brigade under Operation TIGER PAW II to deny criminal elements freedom of movement and strengthen security across major routes and communities in Kogi State and adjoining areas.
The Brigade further disclosed that troops are currently exploiting the general area to track down and apprehend the fleeing terrorists as offensive operations continue across the theatre.
