The Nigerian Army 12 Brigade, in collaboration with local vigilantes, successfully disrupted bandit activities in Kogi State, ensuring safer rural communities and apprehending a key accomplice.
The operations, conducted on Saturday, January 3, targeted multiple criminal movements across the state as part of the Brigade’s intensified “fighting patrol” strategy aimed at dismantling kidnapping and banditry networks, according to Lt. Hassan Abdullahi, the Brigade’s spokesperson.
Acting on intelligence about a bandit group moving from the Adankolo area, troops set a strategic ambush in Kabba Bunu Local Government Area. Lt. Abdullahi reported, “Troops ambushed bandits moving toward Agbadu Bunu, neutralising two and recovering arms, including an AK-47 rifle and ammunition. The remaining gang members fled but sustained injuries, as evidenced by blood stains at the scene”.
The Army also recovered a magazine, a locally fabricated gun, and additional rounds of ammunition during the encounter.
In a simultaneous operation in Yagba West Local Government Area, troops worked with local vigilante groups to secure the Saminaka village axis, neutralising another bandit and seizing an AK-47 rifle with ammunition.
The weekend’s operations further led to the arrest of Sunday Adedotun, a suspected logistics supplier who allegedly provided provisions to bandits in forested areas. During a raid on his settlement, troops recovered energy drinks, soft drinks, bottled water, and harvested farm produce intended for criminal use. Adedotun is now in military custody as investigations continue.
Brig.-Gen. Kasim Sidi, Commander of 12 Brigade, commended the troops for their professionalism and courage, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to maintaining an aggressive posture to prevent any part of Kogi State from becoming a safe haven for criminals.
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