Troops Kill Three Bandits, Arrest Logistics Supplier in Kogi

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade, based in Lokoja, have disrupted the movement of suspected bandits in parts of Kogi State, resulting in the killing of three suspects and the arrest of an alleged logistics supplier.

The development was confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday in Lokoja by the Brigade’s spokesperson, Lt. Hassan Abdullahi.

He said the operation was carried out on Saturday, January 3, as part of sustained military efforts to combat banditry and kidnapping in the state.

According to Abdullahi, soldiers conducted coordinated fighting patrols and ambush operations across Kabba Bunu and Yagba West Local Government Areas, acting on credible intelligence regarding the movement of criminal elements.

“Troops ambushed bandits moving toward Agbadu Bunu, neutralising two and recovering arms including an AK-47 rifle and ammunition,” he said.

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He explained that the troops intercepted the suspects after receiving intelligence that bandits were advancing from the Adankolo general area.

“They ran into our ambush and were engaged, forcing them to withdraw with indications of casualties, as blood stains were observed,” Abdullahi said.

He added that two of the bandits were confirmed neutralised during the encounter, while weapons recovered included an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, ammunition, a locally fabricated firearm and cartridges.

In a separate operation, Abdullahi said soldiers working alongside local vigilantes engaged another group of bandits around Saminaka village in Yagba West Local Government Area.

“One bandit was neutralised during the encounter, and an AK-47 rifle with ammunition was recovered,” he said.

The army spokesperson also revealed that a suspected logistics supplier to the bandits, identified as Sunday Adedotun, was arrested during the operation.

“Items recovered from his settlement included energy drinks, soft drinks, bottled water and harvested farm produce,” Abdullahi said.

He noted that the suspect is currently in military custody and is undergoing investigation.

Abdullahi said the outcome of the operations reflects sustained pressure on criminal groups and their support networks within the state.

He added that the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Kasim Sidi, praised the troops for their professionalism, bravery and timely response to intelligence, while assuring that aggressive patrols and operations would continue to deny criminals freedom of action across Kogi State.