KOGI: Troops Neutralise Two Kidnappers, Recover AK-47 Rifles, Over 5,000 Rounds Of Ammunition
Troops of the 12 Composite Brigade, 5 Division, Nigerian Army, have neutralised two suspected kidnappers and recovered arms, ammunition and other items during a follow-up clearance operation in Edimogbo Forest, Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The operation, conducted on November 3, 2026, was part of ongoing military efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and followed an earlier raid on a suspected kidnappers’ hideout in the same forest on November 2.
According to the Army, the initial operation resulted in contact with the criminal elements, prompting troops to sustain the exploitation of the forest to track fleeing suspects, clear remaining hideouts and restrict their freedom of movement.
During the follow-up operation, troops again encountered the fleeing criminals and engaged them, forcing them to retreat into the surrounding forest. Two kidnappers were neutralised during the encounter, 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 successful operation had further strengthened the gains recorded during the previous day’s raid, adding that troops remained committed to sustaining pressure on criminal groups operating within the Brigade’s area of responsibility.
It also disclosed that troops continued to dominate the general area, with their morale and operational effectiveness remaining high.
The Nigerian Army reassured residents of Kogi State of its commitment to protecting lives and property, sustaining operations against criminal elements and restoring lasting peace and security across the state.
