By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the 12 Brigade, under the 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, have foiled a planned kidnapping operation, neutralized a terrorist and recovered arms and ammunition during a successful ambush operation in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
According to an official signed statement by Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, the operation was conducted on May 30, 2026, following credible intelligence indicating that terrorists were planning to carry out kidnapping activities within Jakura II Community.
The statement disclosed that acting on the intelligence, troops swiftly deployed to a suspected terrorist crossing point along the Old Obajana–Tajimi Road, where they laid an ambush to deny the criminals freedom of action.
During the operation, the troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them in a fierce firefight. One terrorist was neutralized, while other members of the criminal group fled the scene with suspected gunshot wounds.
Lieutenant Abdullahi stated that a follow-up exploitation of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, five magazines, 70 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one bandolier and mobile phones. He noted that the recovered items further confirmed the involvement of the criminal elements in kidnapping activities within the area.
The statement added that the successful operation underscores the determination of troops of the 12 Brigade to sustain offensive operations against terrorists and other criminal elements threatening the security of law-abiding citizens. It further revealed that efforts are ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Commander of the 12 Brigade, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, commended the troops for their vigilance, combat efficiency and dedication to duty. He reassured residents of the Brigade’s commitment to maintaining pressure on terrorists and other criminal elements and urged members of the public to continue providing timely and actionable intelligence to security agencies.
