Troops Kill Suspected Terrorist In Kogi Ambush

Eric Patrick

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade have neutralized a suspected terrorist during a coordinated ambush operation in Kogi State, recovering weapons, ammunition and other items from the scene.

The operation was carried out along suspected bandit crossing routes within the Adankolo Forest Reserve in Lokoja Local Government Area during the early hours of Sunday.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Lt. Hassan Abdullahi, the troops acted on credible intelligence regarding the movement of suspected terrorists in the area.

The statement added that personnel from the 12 Brigade Quick Response Group laid an ambush at a suspected crossing point before making contact with the armed group.

“During the operation, the troops engaged the terrorists in a firefight, neutralizing one terrorist while others escaped with gunshot wounds into the surrounding bush,” the statement read.

Security operatives recovered two AK-47 rifles, one locally fabricated pistol, six magazines and 145 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition after the encounter.

Other items recovered included a camouflage bandolier, a Honda motorcycle, Diclofenac medication, three mobile phones, three power banks and ₦62,900 in cash.

The Nigerian Army said the operation formed part of ongoing clearance efforts under Operation TIGER PAW II aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of movement and improving security across Kogi State and neighbouring areas.

Troops have continued exploitation operations within the forest reserve to track down and apprehend fleeing suspects, the Army added.

The military has intensified counterterrorism and anti-banditry operations in parts of North Central Nigeria amid growing security concerns along major highways and rural communities.