Troops Kill Three Suspected Kidnappers, Recover Four AK-47 Rifles in Kogi
Troops of the 12 Composite Brigade of the Nigerian Army, under the newly established 5 Division, have neutralised three suspected kidnappers and recovered four AK-47 rifles, magazines and hundreds of rounds of ammunition during an operation in Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The operation, conducted on November 4, 2026, involved troops working alongside personnel of the Kogi State Vigilance Service (KSVS) as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks and eliminate criminal elements operating in the state.
According to the Nigerian Army, the operation followed earlier raid and exploitation activities in Edimogbo Forest, where suspected kidnappers were believed to be operating.
The joint security team subsequently extended its search from Edimogbo Forest towards the Obele Forest area in pursuit of fleeing criminal elements.
During the operation, the troops reportedly made contact with the suspected kidnappers, who attempted to escape upon sighting the advancing security personnel. The ensuing encounter resulted in the neutralisation of three suspects.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of four AK-47 rifles, 12 magazines, 336 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, three bandoliers and an identity card.
The Army said the operation demonstrated the sustained pressure being mounted on criminal groups through offensive operations, intelligence-driven patrols and the exploitation of identified criminal hideouts.
It added that maintaining operational dominance in the affected areas would help deny kidnappers freedom of movement and restore confidence among residents.
The Commander of 12 Composite Brigade, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, commended the troops and Kogi State Vigilance Service personnel for their resilience, professionalism and effectiveness.
He urged them to sustain the operational momentum and ensure that criminal elements have no safe haven within the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property in Kogi State and neighbouring areas, while urging residents to provide credible and timely information to security agencies to support ongoing operations.
