In a significant blow to criminal elements, troops of the Nigerian Army's 12 Brigade based in Lokoja have successfully disrupted bandit activities in Kogi State, resulting in three fatalities and the arrest of a key logistics supporter.
Coordinated Operations Thwart Criminal Plans
The successful counter-banditry actions were carried out on Saturday, January 3, 2026, as confirmed in an official statement released on Sunday by the Brigade's spokesperson, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi. The operations, which involved strategic fighting patrols and ambushes, targeted the Kabba Bunu and Yagba West Local Government Areas of the state.
Acting on credible intelligence about bandit movement from the Adankolo general area, soldiers set up an ambush near Agbadu Bunu. Two bandits were neutralised in the ensuing confrontation, forcing the remaining criminals to retreat with visible injuries, as indicated by trails of blood left at the scene.
Recovered Arms and Further Engagements
From this initial engagement, troops recovered a significant cache of weapons, which included:
- An AK-47 rifle
- A magazine and ammunition
- A locally fabricated gun
- Several cartridges
In a separate but simultaneous operation conducted in collaboration with local vigilantes in Yagba West, troops engaged another bandit group around Saminaka village. This encounter led to the neutralisation of one additional bandit and the recovery of another AK-47 rifle with ammunition.
Logistics Network Disrupted
In a crucial follow-up action, the security forces apprehended a suspected bandit logistics supplier identified as Sunday Adedotun. A search of his settlement yielded items intended for the criminals, such as:
- Energy drinks and soft drinks
- Bottled water
- Harvested farm produce
The suspect is currently in military custody and undergoing thorough investigation. This arrest highlights the Army's strategy to dismantle not just the combatants but also the support networks that sustain criminal operations.
Sustained Pressure and Commendation
Lieutenant Abdullahi emphasised that these successful operations demonstrate the sustained pressure being applied on criminals and their allies in Kogi State. The Brigade Commander, Brigadier-General Kasim Sidi, commended the troops for their professionalism, courage, and swift response to intelligence.
General Sidi assured residents of Kogi State that the Nigerian Army will continue with aggressive patrols and operations to deny criminals freedom of action and restore lasting peace to the region. The recent successes serve as a strong warning to all criminal elements operating within the state.
