Army kills two kidnappers in Kogi, recovers 5,000 rounds of ammunition

Nigerian soldiers. Photo: Military

Troops of the 12 Composite Brigade of the Nigerian Army have killed two suspected kidnappers and recovered arms and ammunition during a follow-up operation in Edimogbo Forest, Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Composite Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, disclosed this in a statement issued late Tuesday.

He said the operation, conducted on November 3, 2026, followed an earlier raid on a suspected kidnappers’ hideout in the forest on November 2, during which troops engaged the criminals.

According to him, the follow-up operation involved tracking fleeing suspects and clearing the remaining hideouts.

Items recovered during the operation included 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 operation reinforced its resolve to sustain pressure on criminal elements, protect lives and property, and restore lasting peace and security across Kogi State.

“The successful exploitation operation further consolidates the gains recorded during the previous day’s raid and underscores the Brigade’s determination to sustain pressure on criminal elements operating within its area of responsibility.

“Troops have continued to dominate the general area, with their morale and fighting efficiency remaining high,” the statement added.

PUNCH Metro reports that troops of the 12 Brigade have been working with the Kogi State Police Command and other security agencies to intensify the fight against kidnapping in parts of the state.