Army foils kidnap attempt in Kogi, kills terrorist, seizes weapons

Troops of 12 Brigade under 2 Division Nigerian Army have thwarted a planned kidnap operation and neutralised a terrorist during a successful ambush conducted in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State. A statement issued in the early hours of Sunday by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.Hassan Abdulahi stated that the operation which was conducted on 30 May 2026 followed credible intelligence indicating plans by terrorists to carry out kidnapping activities within Jakura II Community. “Acting on the intelligence, troops swiftly deployed and occupied a suspected terrorist crossing point along Old Obajana–Tajimi Road, where an ambush was laid to deny the criminals freedom of action. “During the operation, troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them with effective fire. Following the firefight, one terrorist was neutralised while other members of the criminal group fled the scene with suspected gunshot wounds.” Abdulahi said. He said that further exploitation led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, five magazines, 70 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one bandolier and mobile phones. Related News Tinubu mourns first African UN peacekeeping military adviser, Obiakor 35 Artillery Brigade’s new commander resumes Terrorism: Forest routes fuelling South-West kidnappings “The recovered items further corroborate the involvement of the criminal elements in kidnapping activities within the general area” he noted. Abdulahi said that the successful operation demonstrates the resolve of the troops of 12 Brigade to sustain offensive operations against terrorists and other criminal elements threatening the security of law-abiding citizens. He said that further exploitation of the area is ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing terrorists. The Commander, 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, commended the troops for their vigilance, combat efficiency, and commitment to duty. He reassured residents of the Brigade’s determination to maintain pressure on terrorists and other criminal elements, while urging the public to continue providing timely, actionable intelligence to security agencies. Gbenga Odogun

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