Army Intensifies Kidnappers’ HUNT In Kogi, Kills Two, Seizes Arms And 5,163 Rounds Of Ammunition
Troops of the Nigerian Army have killed two suspected kidnappers and recovered two AK-47 rifles alongside thousands of rounds of ammunition during an intensified security operation in Edimogbo Forest, Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The operation was carried out on November 3, 2026, by troops of the 12 Composite Brigade, 5 Division, Nigerian Army, as part of sustained efforts to flush out kidnappers and other criminal elements from the state.
The latest offensive followed a successful raid on a suspected kidnappers’ hideout in the forest on November 2, during which troops made contact with the criminals.
Following the initial encounter, the soldiers launched a follow-up exploitation operation to track down fleeing suspects, dismantle remaining hideouts and prevent the criminals from regrouping.
During the renewed operation, troops engaged the fleeing suspects in a gun battle, forcing them to withdraw into the forest. Two of the kidnappers were neutralised in the encounter, while others escaped.
Items recovered during a subsequent search 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 one power bank.
The Army described the operation as another significant achievement in its ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks and restore security in Kogi State.
It added that troops had maintained dominance over the operational area, with their morale and fighting efficiency remaining high.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its resolve to sustain the offensive against criminal elements and assured residents of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property while restoring lasting peace across the state.
