A major security offensive in Kogi State has resulted in a significant blow against criminal elements, with scores of armed bandits neutralised by a combined force of police and military personnel.
Precision Strikes Dismantle Criminal Networks
The operation, which received crucial air support from the Nigeria Police Force Air Wing, successfully flushed out bandits from their hideouts and dislodged their networks. The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Aya, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Sunday, January 11, 2026.
Aya explained that the ongoing onslaught was executed with vigour, commitment, and professionalism. The integration of precision air strikes was highlighted as a key factor in the operation's effectiveness, enabling security forces to target and eliminate the threats efficiently.
Public Vigilance and Cooperation Urged
Following the successful strikes, the police command has called for increased public cooperation to sustain the momentum against insecurity. SP William Aya appealed to residents to provide credible and timely intelligence about suspicious individuals and activities within their communities.
The public is specifically advised to report anyone seen with gunshot wounds or exhibiting suspicious behaviour to the nearest security agency. Aya emphasised that security is a shared responsibility, stating that collective vigilance is essential to making Nigeria safer.
Broader Context of Military Successes
This operation in Kogi State aligns with a series of recent successful counter-banditry actions across the country. In a related development, the Nigerian Army's Air Component killed no fewer than 23 terrorists who were fleeing from Kano State into Katsina State during Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
Similarly, troops of the 6 Brigade recently destroyed multiple bandits' camps in Taraba State under Operation Zafin Wuta, neutralising armed men and recovering weapons. These coordinated efforts underscore a heightened and multi-pronged approach by Nigeria's security apparatus to dismantle criminal networks and restore peace in affected regions.
