Army foils kidnap attempt, kills terrorist in Kogi

Troops of the 12 Brigade, 2 Division, Nigerian Army, have foiled a planned kidnapping operation and neutralised a terrorist during an ambush in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State. A statement issued in the early hours of Sunday by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Lt Hassan Abdullahi, said the operation was conducted on May 30, 2026, following credible intelligence indicating plans by terrorists to carry out kidnapping activities within the 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,” he said. He said 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 Lagos, police deploy aerial surveillance to boost security Police foil kidnap plot on Jigawa–Bauchi border, arrest two suspects UPDATED: Atiku holds closed-door talks with Hayatu-Deen “The recovered items further corroborate the involvement of the criminal elements in kidnapping activities within the general area,” he noted. Abdullahi said the successful operation demonstrated the resolve of troops of the 12 Brigade to sustain offensive operations against terrorists and other criminal elements threatening the security of law-abiding citizens. He added that further exploitation of the area was ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing terrorists. The Commander, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig Gen 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 members of the public to continue providing timely and actionable intelligence to security agencies. Taiwo Ojoye

UPDATE NEWS: As a Nigerian living in Nigeria or diaspora, you can now earn about ₦17- ₦25Million when you acquire premium domains for as low as $2500. You get paid in US Dollars. Ideal for Civil/public servants, Entrepreneurs, Accountants, Doctors, IT Experts and many others. Click here to start.

Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive c